Simplicity 400
Power
4 hp
Production
1961-1964
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Belt-driven gear
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Simplicity 400 Riding Lawn Mower
The Simplicity 400 is a classic riding lawn mower produced by the American manufacturer Simplicity in Port Washington, Wisconsin, between 1961 and 1964. Designed primarily for residential lawn maintenance, this model served as a standard utility vehicle for property owners during the early 1960s.
Engine and Power
The machine is powered by a 1-cylinder, air-cooled Briggs & Stratton gasoline engine. It produces 4 horsepower (3.0 kW), providing sufficient output for standard mowing tasks. The engine utilizes a manual recoil starter system, which was common for garden equipment of this era.
Transmission and Drive
The Simplicity 400 employs a belt-driven gear transmission system. It features 2 forward gears and 2 reverse gears, allowing for basic speed control. The tractor is configured with a two-wheel drive system and manual steering to ensure straightforward handling.
Mowing and Chassis
Equipped with a 24-inch mower deck, the tractor is optimized for efficient grass cutting. The operator station features an open design for accessibility. The vehicle rides on lawn and turf-specific tires, with 10x2.50 dimensions at the front and 4.00x8 at the rear, designed to minimize soil compaction and protect turf integrity.
Conclusion
With an original retail price of $325 in 1963, the Simplicity 400 represents a period of American manufacturing focused on mechanical simplicity and utility. It remains a notable model for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage lawn and garden equipment.
Production Information of Simplicity, 400
- Original price was $325 in 1963
- Riding lawn mower
- Built in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Simplicity |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Simplicity, 400
| Lawn/turf front | 10x2.50 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 4.00x8 |
Engine Specifications of Simplicity, 400
- Briggs & Stratton
- Air-cooled
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 4 hp [3.0 kW] |
|---|---|
| Starter type | Manual recoil |
Transmission Information of Simplicity, 400
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 2 forward and reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Simplicity, 400
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Where it sits
With 4 HP, the Simplicity 400 sits just below 600 (6 HP) in Simplicity's range. Its power puts it in the 15th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Simplicity 400 have?
The Simplicity 400 delivers 4 HP.
What years was the Simplicity 400 produced?
The Simplicity 400 was produced in 1961-1964.
What engine does the Simplicity 400 have?
The Simplicity 400 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Simplicity 400 use?
The Simplicity 400 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.
Is the Simplicity 400 4WD?
The Simplicity 400 is available in 2WD.