Introduction
Simplicity SunStar 18 Garden Tractor
The Simplicity SunStar 18 is a garden tractor produced between 1987 and 1997 in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA. It served as a mid-range model within the SunStar series, designed for residential property maintenance and compatible with 42 or 48-inch mower decks.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by an air-cooled, 569 cc V-Twin gasoline engine. Early models featured Kohler engines, while later units utilized the Briggs & Stratton Vanguard 350447, delivering a gross power output of 18 hp at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine cooling is supported by a dual-element air cleaner to maintain performance in varied conditions.
Transmission and Chassis
The SunStar 18 utilizes a shaft-driven hydrostatic transmission based on the Sundstrand 15 unit and the Peerless 2600 transaxle. This configuration provides infinite forward and reverse speed control. The machine features a two-wheel-drive drivetrain, mechanical drum brakes, and manual steering, with hydraulic power steering available as an optional upgrade.
Power Take-Off and Hydraulics
The tractor includes both front and rear independent PTO systems. The front PTO is pulley-driven, while the rear PTO operates at 2000 RPM. Both systems are engaged via an electric clutch, allowing for precise control when operating attachments.
Dimensions and Electrical
The machine has a wheelbase of 51 inches and an overall length of 78 inches, with a base weight of 825 lbs. It is equipped with a 12-volt electrical system featuring a flywheel alternator capable of producing 15 charging amps. The tractor rides on 16x6.50-8 front and 23x10.5-12 rear lawn/turf tires.
Conclusion
The Simplicity SunStar 18 is a robust garden tractor tailored for users requiring a versatile machine for mowing and light property management tasks. Its hydrostatic transmission and independent PTO system provide the necessary flexibility for operating various implements in a residential or small-scale maintenance environment.
Production Information of Simplicity, SunStar 18
- Garden tractor
- Built in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Simplicity |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | $6,300 (1991 ) |
| Original price | $6,049 (1990 ) |
| Original price(optional) | $6,850 (1993 ) |
Dimension and Tires Information of Simplicity, SunStar 18
| 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 (with 48-inch deck) [454 kg] |
| Width | 38.25 inches [97 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x6.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x10.5-12 |
Engine Specifications of Simplicity, SunStar 18
- Vanguard 350447
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft V-Twin
- 2-cylinder
- The Briggs Vanguard was replaced the Kohler in 1995 and was used through the end of production.
- Gasoline
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
|---|---|
| Sparkplug | Champion RV15YC |
| Power (gross) | 18 hp [13.4 kW] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 2.83x2.75 inches [72 x 70 mm] |
| Air cleaner | Dual element |
| Displacement | 569 cc [34.75 ci] |
| Oil capacity | 1.5 qts [1.4 L] |
| Oil capacity | 1.75 qts [1.7 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Simplicity, SunStar 18
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 |
Transmission variants 2
Mechanical Specs of Simplicity, SunStar 18
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Mechanical drum brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|---|
| Steering(optional) | Hydraulic power optional |
Power Information of Simplicity, SunStar 18
| 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 18
| Rear Type(optional) | 0 |
|---|
Electrical System of Simplicity, SunStar 18
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 400 |
| Charging system | Flywheel alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 18 HP, the Simplicity SunStar 18 sits between SunStar 16 (16 HP) and SunStar 20 (20 HP) in Simplicity's range. Its power puts it in the 93th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Simplicity SunStar 18 have?
The Simplicity SunStar 18 delivers 18 HP.
What years was the Simplicity SunStar 18 produced?
The Simplicity SunStar 18 was produced in 1987-1997.
What engine does the Simplicity SunStar 18 have?
The Simplicity SunStar 18 is powered by a Gasoline, 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Simplicity SunStar 18 use?
The Simplicity SunStar 18 uses a Sundstrand 15 transmission.
How much does the Simplicity SunStar 18 weigh?
The Simplicity SunStar 18 weighs 825 lbs [374 kg].
Is the Simplicity SunStar 18 4WD?
The Simplicity SunStar 18 is available in 2WD.