Introduction
Simplicity SunStar 16 Garden Tractor
The Simplicity SunStar 16 is a garden tractor manufactured between 1988 and 1990 in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA. Designed for residential landscaping and garden maintenance, it represents a robust entry in the Simplicity product lineup during the late 1980s.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a Kohler M16, a single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline engine with a displacement of 588 cc (35.9 ci). It produces a gross power output of 16 hp (11.9 kW) at a rated speed of 3400 RPM. The engine features a dual-element air cleaner and splash lubrication. Power is transmitted through a shaft-driven Sundstrand 15 hydrostatic transmission, which utilizes a Peerless 2600 transaxle to provide infinite forward and reverse speed control.
Mechanical and Operator Interface
Built on a two-wheel-drive chassis, the SunStar 16 features manual steering and mechanical drum brakes. The operator sits at an open station designed for visibility and ease of access. The electrical system is powered by a 12-volt battery with 400 CCA, supported by a flywheel alternator providing 15 charging amps.
PTO and Attachments
Versatility is facilitated by independent front and rear power take-off (PTO) systems, both utilizing an electric clutch for engagement. The PTO configuration is pulley-driven. The tractor is compatible with 42-inch or 48-inch mower decks and offers optional rear hitch configurations, including a sleeve hitch, to accommodate various garden implements.
Dimensions and Tires
The machine has a wheelbase of 51 inches (129 cm) and an overall length of 78 inches (198 cm). With a width of 38.25 inches (97 cm) and a height of 47 inches (119 cm) measured to the steering wheel, it is sized for efficient maneuvering in garden environments. The base weight is approximately 825 lbs (374 kg), increasing to 1003 lbs (454 kg) when equipped with a 48-inch mower deck. It rolls on 16x6.50-8 front and 23x10.5-12 rear lawn/turf tires.
Conclusion
The Simplicity SunStar 16 is a durable garden tractor suited for homeowners and small-scale property maintenance. Its hydrostatic transmission and independent PTO system provide the necessary flexibility for mowing and utility tasks, reflecting the engineering standards of the late 1980s.
Production Information of Simplicity, SunStar 16
- Original price was $5,349 in 1990
- Garden tractor
- Built in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Simplicity |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Simplicity, SunStar 16
| Wheelbase | 51 inches [129 cm] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 825 lbs [374 kg] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 47 inches [119 cm] |
| Length | 78 inches [198 cm] |
| Length(optional) | 1003 lbs [454 kg] |
| Width | 38.25 inches [97 cm] |
Weight with 48-inch deck.
| Lawn/turf front | 16x6.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x10.5-12 |
Engine Specifications of Simplicity, SunStar 16
- Kohler M16
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
- Splash-lubricated engine.
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
|---|---|
| Power (gross) | 16 hp [11.9 kW] |
| Air cleaner | Dual element |
| Starter | Electric |
| Rated RPM | 3400 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.6875x3.25 inches [94 x 83 mm] |
| Displacement | 588 cc [35.9 ci] |
| Sparkplug | Champion RH10 |
| Oil capacity | 2 qts [1.9 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Simplicity, SunStar 16
Transmission variants 1
- Peerless 2600 transaxle.
| Transmission | Sundstrand 15 |
|---|---|
| Oil type | ATF F |
| Oil capacity | 6 qts [5.7 L] |
| Type | Shaft-driven hydrostatic |
| Type(optional) | ATF F |
| Gears | Infinite forward and reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Simplicity, SunStar 16
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Manual steering
- Mechanical drum brakes
Power Information of Simplicity, SunStar 16
| Front PTO Type | Pulley |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | Independent |
| Front PTO | Independent |
| Front PTO(optional) | 3400 |
| Clutch | Electric |
| Clutch | Electric |
| Rear PTO Type | 2000 |
Three-Point Hitch of Simplicity, SunStar 16
| Rear Type(optional) | 0 |
|---|---|
| Type(optional) | Sleeve hitch |
Electrical System of Simplicity, SunStar 16
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 400 |
| Charging system | Flywheel alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 16 HP, the Simplicity SunStar 16 sits between SunStar 14 (14 HP) and SunStar 18 (18 HP) in Simplicity's range. Its power puts it in the 78th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Simplicity SunStar 16 have?
The Simplicity SunStar 16 delivers 16 HP.
What years was the Simplicity SunStar 16 produced?
The Simplicity SunStar 16 was produced in 1988-1990.
What engine does the Simplicity SunStar 16 have?
The Simplicity SunStar 16 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Simplicity SunStar 16 use?
The Simplicity SunStar 16 uses a Sundstrand 15 transmission.
How much does the Simplicity SunStar 16 weigh?
The Simplicity SunStar 16 weighs 825 lbs [374 kg].
Is the Simplicity SunStar 16 4WD?
The Simplicity SunStar 16 is available in 2WD.