A strong gas engine for towing-related equipment needs usable torque and enough power for the load; the BILT HARD 23 HP 713cc Engine is a clear starting point because its listed torque reaches 33.2 ft.-lb. at 2,600 RPM. These six options range from 11.7 HP to 35 HP and include horizontal-shaft replacement engines, commercial Vanguard V-Twins, and a Honda engine with electric start and recoil backup.
That range matters because an engine that fits a mower or pump may not fit a trailer-moving application—or its existing equipment. Compare horsepower and torque where provided, then verify shaft dimensions, mounting, and the equipment maker’s requirements before buying.
The listings do not provide towing capacity or vehicle compatibility, so treat engine specifications as comparison points, not a towing rating.
The BILT HARD 23 HP 713cc Engine leads this roundup because it is the only listed option with a specific torque figure suited to comparing load-moving potential: 33.2 ft.-lb. at 2,600 RPM. Its two-cylinder horizontal-shaft OHV design and electric start are also stated, making it a useful candidate for demanding equipment applications.
However, the listing does not establish towing capacity or compatibility with a particular vehicle or trailer. Confirm the required shaft, mounting, and equipment specifications before treating it as a replacement or towing solution.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts 713cc two-cylinder engine lists 33.2 ft.-lb. of torque at 2,600 RPM, the clearest load-related figure among these engines.
View on Amazon
Highest HorsepowerThe 993cc Vanguard delivers the highest listed output at 35 HP and has a horizontal shaft, though no torque figure is supplied.
View on Amazon
Commercial V-TwinThis 627cc commercial-use V-Twin offers full-pressure lubrication, an oil cooler, and a spin-on oil filter, but no torque rating.
View on Amazon- Electric Start Honda GX390 Engine
Compare the Engine Options and Their Key Differences
| # | Product | Weight | Dimensions | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. BILT HARD 23 HP EngineBest Overall | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Briggs Vanguard 35 HPHighest Horsepower | 150 lb | 25.75 x 22.75 x 22.75 in | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Briggs Vanguard 23 HPCommercial V-Twin | 92 lb | 44.5 x 39.25 x 39.25 in | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  4. 24 HP Intek EngineRiding mower replacement | — | 18.75"D x 17.75"W x 13.5"H | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  5. Briggs Vanguard 18 HPMidrange commercial equipment | 94.7 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  6. Honda GX390 EngineElectric Start | 90 lb | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Gas Engine For Towing
#1 · Best Overall
1. BILT HARD 23 HP Engine
Best for: Electric-start work equipment.
Why it ranks #1: Its 713cc two-cylinder engine lists 33.2 ft.-lb. of torque at 2,600 RPM, the clearest load-related figure among these engines.
A listed peak torque of 33.2 ft.-lb at 2,600 RPM gives this 23 HP BILT HARD twin-cylinder engine a concrete power figure for demanding equipment such as pressure washers, water pumps, and log splitters. Its 713cc displacement and electric start further shape the choice for applications where engine output and starting method matter.
The horizontal-shaft, 4-stroke OHV configuration is specified for equipment applications, while the twin-cylinder layout and 23 HP rating describe its power package. BILT HARD lists reduced vibration as an OHV-engine benefit, which can help limit operator fatigue; a built-in fuel shut-off is another useful operating feature. The engine is EPA-compliant and reaches a maximum speed of 3750±50 RPM, so confirm those operating specifications suit the driven equipment.
- 23 HP and 713cc twin-cylinder engine
- 33.2 ft.-lb torque at 2,600 RPM
- Electric start
- Built-in fuel shut-off
- Maximum speed is 3750±50 RPM, a ceiling to account for when matching equipment.
Skip it if you need more than 23 HP; the Briggs & Stratton 613477-0242-J1 Vanguard lists 35 HP.
This BILT HARD suits buyers powering a pressure washer, water pump, or log splitter who value electric starting and the stated torque figure. Check that its 3750±50 RPM maximum and horizontal-shaft configuration match the equipment.
Full product details
| Brand | BILT HARD |
|---|---|
| Item model number | TEA-0311-0521 |
| Manufacturer | BILT HARD |
Listed on Amazon as: BILT HARD 23 HP 713cc Gas Powered Engine with Electric Start, Two-Cylinder Single Engine Horizontal Shaft 4-Stroke OHV Motor Engine for Pressure Washer, Water Pump and Log Splitter
View on Amazon#2 · Highest Horsepower
2. Briggs Vanguard 35 HP
- Weight: 150 lb
- Dimensions: 25.75 x 22.75 x 22.75 in
Best for: High-output equipment applications.
Why it ranks #2: The 993cc Vanguard delivers the highest listed output at 35 HP and has a horizontal shaft, though no torque figure is supplied.
The 35 HP, 993cc Vanguard Big Block V-Twin is the highest-output option in this group, offering substantial engine capacity for equipment demanding more power. Its horizontal-shaft configuration and full-pressure lubrication with a spin-on oil filter give buyers useful installation and maintenance details to weigh for a towing-work setup.
The 993cc displacement and 35 HP rating define this engine’s output class, while its horizontal shaft points buyers toward equipment built for that layout. Advanced Debris Management and a Dura-Bore cast iron cylinder sleeve are specified engine features; full-pressure lubrication with a spin-on filter also establishes a particular oil-service setup. At 150 pounds, handling and mounting require serious planning. The listing stresses that replacement engines are model-specific, so confirm the original engine identity before committing to a replacement.
- 35 HP output and 993cc displacement
- Horizontal-shaft configuration
- Full-pressure lubrication with spin-on oil filter
- Advanced Debris Management
- At 150 pounds, moving and mounting the engine is demanding.
Skip it if you want a lighter listed engine; the Briggs & Stratton 386447-0090-G1 weighs 92 pounds and provides 23 HP.
Select this Vanguard for equipment whose replacement specification calls for a 35 HP horizontal-shaft engine. Its 150-pound weight and model-specific replacement guidance make lifting arrangements and exact engine identification essential considerations.
Full product details
| Brand | Briggs & Stratton |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 150 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Briggs and Stratton |
| Dimensions | 25.75 x 22.75 x 22.75 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Briggs & Stratton 613477-0242-J1 Vanguard 35 HP 993cc Horizontal Shaft Engine
View on Amazon#3 · Commercial V-Twin
3. Briggs Vanguard 23 HP
- Weight: 92 lb
- Dimensions: 44.5 x 39.25 x 39.25 in
Best for: Commercial equipment power.
Why it ranks #3: This 627cc commercial-use V-Twin offers full-pressure lubrication, an oil cooler, and a spin-on oil filter, but no torque rating.
The 627cc displacement and 23 HP output give the Briggs & Stratton Vanguard substantial capacity for demanding commercial equipment, including machinery used around towing work. Its full-pressure lubrication with a spin-on oil filter supports a defined oil-service workflow, while an oil cooler adds another feature for managing engine heat during operation.
Advanced Debris Management and the low-profile dual-clean air cleaner address air intake, while the Dura-Bore cast iron cylinder sleeve provides a wear-focused engine component. Full-pressure lubrication with a spin-on filter gives maintenance a familiar filter-change point, and the oil cooler adds heat-management hardware. At 92 pounds and 44.5 x 39.25 x 39.25 inches, this is a substantial engine to handle and install; check equipment space and mounting compatibility before choosing it.
- 23 HP output and 627cc displacement
- Full-pressure lubrication with spin-on oil filter
- Oil cooler included
- Advanced Debris Management and dual-clean air cleaner
- At 92 pounds, handling and installation require planning.
Skip it if you need a lower-output replacement; the Honda GX390UT2XQAE offers 11.7 HP and a specified keyed shaft.
Choose this Vanguard for commercial equipment where 23 HP, debris management, and an oil cooler suit the operating demands. Its 92-pound weight and listed dimensions make handling and space checks important before installation.
Full product details
| Brand | Briggs & Stratton |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 92 pounds |
| Item model number | 386447-0090-G1 |
| Manufacturer | Briggs and Stratton |
| Dimensions | 44.5 x 39.25 x 39.25 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: BRIGGS&STRATTON 386447-0090-G1 23 HP Vanguard Engine, Black
View on Amazon#4
4. 24 HP Intek Engine
- Dimensions: 18.75"D x 17.75"W x 13.5"H
Best for: Riding mower replacement.
Why it ranks #4: Its 24 HP and 724cc provide substantial listed output, but it is described as a mower replacement and specifies a particular shaft size.
With 24 HP and 724cc displacement, this Intek-series engine offers substantial output for a consumer riding mower or zero-turn replacement. Its listed 1-inch by 3-5/32-inch shaft, 1/4-inch keyway, and tapped 7/16-inch end give buyers concrete dimensions to compare against the existing engine before installation.
The engine is identified as a common replacement for consumer riding mowers and zero-turns, and its shaft dimensions help narrow compatibility checks. However, Briggs crankshafts come in several listed sizes, so measure the old shaft rather than relying on the engine family alone. Mounting holes are drilled only; the listing recommends using nuts and bolts or the existing self-tapping bolts. That makes hardware planning part of installation, not an afterthought.
- 24 HP output
- 724cc displacement
- 1-inch x 3-5/32-inch shaft with 1/4-inch keyway
- Listed as a common riding mower and zero-turn replacement
- Mounting holes are drilled only; installation hardware planning is required.
Skip it if you need a specified electric-start system; the Honda GX390UT2XQAE lists electric starting and recoil backup.
This engine fits buyers replacing a consumer riding mower or zero-turn who need its stated 24 HP and shaft dimensions. Measure the old crankshaft and plan mounting hardware, since drilled holes alone do not complete installation.
Full product details
| Brand | Generic |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 18.75"D x 17.75"W x 13.5"H |
| Manufacturer | Briggs & Stratton |
| Part Number | 44N877 |
| Model Number | 44N877 |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Style | Classic |
| Style Name | Classic |
Listed on Amazon as: 24 HP 724cc Intek Series Engine 1 x 3-5/32 inch (Replaces Briggs 44N877)
View on Amazon#5
5. Briggs Vanguard 18 HP
- Weight: 94.7 lb
Best for: Midrange commercial equipment.
Why it ranks #5: The 570cc commercial Vanguard has an oil cooler and full-pressure lubrication, but its 18 HP is below the higher-output options.
The Briggs & Stratton Vanguard pairs 18 HP with 570cc displacement, giving commercial equipment buyers a midrange output option within the Small Block V-Twin line. Its full-pressure lubrication, spin-on oil filter, and oil cooler supply specific service and heat-management features for equipment that sees regular use.
The Dura-Bore cast iron cylinder sleeve and Advanced Debris Management are relevant to a commercial engine’s wear and intake environment. A low-profile dual-clean air cleaner is part of the intake setup, while full-pressure lubrication and the spin-on oil filter define a straightforward oil-service arrangement. At 94.7 pounds, plan for assistance or suitable lifting during installation; confirm that the equipment’s mounting and shaft requirements match this engine before replacing an existing powerplant.
- 18 HP output and 570cc displacement
- Full-pressure lubrication with spin-on oil filter
- Oil cooler
- Dura-Bore cast iron cylinder sleeve
- Its 18 HP output is lower than the listed 23 HP Vanguard option.
Skip it if you need 23 HP for heavier equipment; the Briggs & Stratton 386447-0090-G1 lists that output.
This 18 HP Vanguard suits buyers replacing commercial equipment engines who value full-pressure lubrication and a spin-on filter. Match its mounting and shaft configuration to the application, and account for its 94.7-pound weight during installation.
Full product details
| Brand | Briggs & Stratton |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Pump |
| Item Weight | 94.7 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Briggs and Stratton |
| Part Number | 356447-0051-G1 |
| Material | cast iron |
| Model | Briggs and Stratton |
| Model Number | 356447-0051-G1 |
| Recommended Uses | Commercial |
| Special Feature | Lightweight |
| Starting Wattage | 13428 watts |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Limited |
| Wattage | 13428 watts |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Briggs & Stratton 356447-0051-G1 18 HP Vanguard Engine, Black
View on Amazon#6 · Electric Start
6. Honda GX390 Engine
- Weight: 90 lb
Best for: Keyed-shaft equipment replacement.
Why it ranks #6: Its 11.7 HP is the lowest listed output, although it provides 19.5 lb.-ft. peak torque at 2,500 RPM and electric start with recoil backup.
A 1-inch straight crankshaft with a 1/4-inch keyway gives the Honda GX390 a clearly specified connection for compatible equipment, while its electric starter provides convenient starting. The 11.7 HP output and 19.5 lb-ft peak torque at 2,500 RPM make its power figures especially useful when evaluating a replacement for towing-related machinery.
Electric starting is backed by a heavy-duty recoil starter, so the engine has two listed starting methods. Its keyed shaft measures approximately 2-7/8 inches of usable length, a practical compatibility detail for equipment with a matching connection. The air-cooled, 4-stroke OHV architecture is identified in the supplied facts, and the overhead-valve design contributes to fuel efficiency and cooler operating temperatures. At 90 pounds, it remains a substantial component to handle during a replacement.
- Electric starter with heavy-duty recoil backup
- 11.7 HP net output at 3,600 RPM
- 19.5 lb-ft peak torque at 2,500 RPM
- 1-inch straight shaft with 1/4-inch keyway
- Its 11.7 HP output is modest for equipment needing higher engine power.
Skip it if you need a higher-output commercial engine; the Briggs & Stratton 356447-0051-G1 lists 18 HP.
Choose the GX390 when your equipment needs a 1-inch keyed shaft, electric starting, and recoil backup. Its 11.7 HP output and approximately 2-7/8-inch usable shaft length make power and connection checks central to fit.
Full product details
| Brand | Honda |
|---|---|
| Color | Red |
| Item Weight | 90 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Honda |
| Material | Steel, Cast Iron, Plastic, Rubber |
| Model | GX390 |
| Model Number | GX390UT2XQAE2 |
| Output Wattage | 8700 watts |
| Recommended Uses | Commercial |
| Running Wattage | 8700 watts |
| Special Feature | Electric Start, Fuel Efficient, Super Quiet |
| Starting Wattage | 8700 watts |
| Voltage | 19.03 volts_of_alternating_current |
| Wattage | 8700 watts |
| Additional Information | Important Information Wattage 8700 watts Bulb Voltage 19 volts_of_alternating_current Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Honda GX390 Engine Standard 1" Crank, Electric Start, GX390UT2XQAE
View on AmazonWhy Engine Output Alone Does Not Establish Towing Capacity
No engine in this selection has a stated towing-capacity rating, so horsepower alone cannot confirm that it can move a specific trailer or load. The BILT HARD 23 HP Engine provides the most directly useful comparison figure, listing 33.2 ft.-lb. at 2,600 RPM; the Honda GX390 Engine lists peak torque of 19.5 lb.-ft.
at 2,500 RPM. Those numbers describe engine output, not the force available at a hitch or the load a vehicle can safely tow.
Gearing, the driven equipment, traction, brakes, frame, and hitch all affect the actual result, and the listings do not specify those details. Before choosing an engine, check the equipment manufacturer’s load limits and installation requirements. If the application is a road vehicle or trailer, use its approved towing specifications rather than treating a replacement engine’s horsepower or torque as a capacity rating.
Check Shaft and Mounting Fit Before Ordering
A replacement engine can fail to fit even when its horsepower seems suitable, because shaft dimensions and mounting details vary. The 24 HP Intek Engine specifies a 1-inch shaft with 3-5/32-inch length, a 1/4-inch keyway, and tapped 7/16-inch details; its listing explicitly asks buyers to measure the old crankshaft. The Honda GX390 Engine also has a 1-inch straight keyed shaft, but its listed usable length is approximately 2-7/8 inches.
Those differences are enough to make assumptions risky. The Briggs Vanguard 35 HP is identified as a horizontal-shaft engine, but the supplied listing does not provide shaft measurements, so confirm them with the seller or manufacturer.
Check shaft diameter, usable length, keyway, rotation, mounting-hole pattern, and clearance against your equipment before ordering. A mismatch can prevent installation or damage connected parts.
How to Choose a Gas Engine for Towing Equipment
Horsepower and Listed Torque
Look for enough output for the equipment and load, and compare torque figures when the listing provides them. These choices span 11.7 HP on the Honda GX390 Engine, 18–24 HP among several options, 23 HP on both the BILT HARD 23 HP Engine and Briggs Vanguard 23 HP, and 35 HP on the Briggs Vanguard 35 HP. Only two listings give torque: the BILT HARD lists 33.2 ft.-lb.
at 2,600 RPM, while the Honda lists peak torque of 19.5 lb.-ft. at 2,500 RPM.
Buyers needing the strongest stated output can consider the 35 HP Vanguard; buyers who want a listed torque point for comparison should start with BILT HARD. Neither figure is a towing-capacity rating.
Shaft and Replacement Compatibility
Check the shaft and mounting details against the equipment before choosing by horsepower. The 24 HP Intek Engine specifies a 1-inch by 3-5/32-inch shaft, a 1/4-inch keyway, and tapped 7/16-inch details, and its listing advises measuring the old crankshaft. The Honda GX390 Engine has a 1-inch straight shaft with a 1/4-inch keyway and approximately 2-7/8 inches of usable length.
The Briggs Vanguard 35 HP is described as horizontal-shaft, but no shaft dimensions are supplied here. Buyers replacing a specific mower engine may find the Intek details useful; those considering another engine should verify every dimension and mounting requirement with the equipment maker or seller before purchase.
Starting and Commercial-Use Features
Choose starting features and engine equipment based on how the engine will be used and maintained. The Honda GX390 Engine includes an electric starter and heavy-duty recoil backup. The BILT HARD 23 HP Engine also lists electric start, while the Briggs Vanguard 23 HP and 18 HP include full-pressure lubrication, a spin-on oil filter, and an oil cooler.
The Vanguard 23 HP listing additionally identifies advanced debris management. Buyers who prioritize a stated electric-start option can compare the Honda and BILT HARD; those looking for listed lubrication and cooling features can compare the two Vanguard small-block engines.
These components do not establish towing capacity, and the supplied data does not give a comparative starting method for every product.
Which Gas Engine Should I Choose for Towing?
For a demanding equipment application where a listed torque figure matters, start with the BILT HARD 23 HP Engine: it lists 33.2 ft.-lb. at 2,600 RPM, plus a horizontal shaft and electric start. If maximum listed horsepower is the priority, the Briggs Vanguard 35 HP offers 35 HP and 993cc, but confirm shaft compatibility because dimensions are not supplied here.
For commercial-use features in a smaller V-Twin, consider the Briggs Vanguard 23 HP; the 18 HP version is a lower-output alternative with an oil cooler and full-pressure lubrication. Choose the 24 HP Intek Engine only after matching its shaft dimensions to the equipment.
The Honda GX390 Engine has electric start and a torque figure, but its 11.7 HP places it last for this use. None has a stated towing-capacity rating.
Related Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the engine power and torque needed for my trailer or equipment load?
Start with the fully loaded weight, then account for slopes, desired acceleration, rolling resistance, and the equipment’s drive system. Use the trailer or equipment manufacturer’s requirements and have a qualified technician assess the application. Compare those needs with engine specifications, but don’t treat horsepower or torque alone as a towing-capacity rating.
Will a horizontal-shaft engine fit my existing towing or utility equipment?
It will fit only if its shaft and mounting specifications match the equipment. Check shaft diameter and length, keyway, mounting pattern, shaft orientation, and any required rotation or drive connections against the equipment documentation. The listings here do not provide every compatibility dimension, so confirm them with the engine and equipment manufacturers before purchasing.
What safety and installation checks should I complete before using an engine for towing?
Follow the engine and equipment manuals, and have the installation checked by a qualified technician. Verify secure mounting, compatible shaft connections, guards, controls, fuel and exhaust arrangements, and that the trailer or equipment is rated for the load. Test operation in a controlled area, and never assume an engine’s output establishes towing capacity.
Which listed engine provides the clearest torque figure for comparing load-moving potential?
The BILT HARD 23 HP listing specifies 33.2 ft.-lb. at 2,600 RPM, making it the clearest option here for a torque-based comparison. That figure does not establish towing capacity or compatibility with a particular setup.
Confirm the equipment’s required shaft, mounting, and operating specifications before choosing it.
What should I do when a listing omits shaft dimensions or equipment compatibility?
Treat fit as unconfirmed until you compare the engine’s complete shaft and mounting details with the equipment requirements. Request missing specifications from the seller or manufacturer, and check the equipment manual. For example, the listed 24 HP Intek option should be chosen only after matching its shaft dimensions to the intended equipment.
Final Words
For demanding equipment where a stated torque figure matters, begin with the BILT HARD 23 HP listing, while treating fit and towing suitability as unconfirmed until checked. Choose the 35 HP Vanguard if maximum listed horsepower is the priority, and verify shaft compatibility. The smaller Vanguard options offer stated commercial-use features; the Honda’s 11.7 HP places it last for this use.
None has a stated towing-capacity rating, so confirm the complete setup before use.
