Introduction
Simplicity SunStar 20 Garden Tractor
The Simplicity SunStar 20 is a garden tractor manufactured in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA, between 1987 and 1997. Designed for residential and estate maintenance, this machine belongs to the SunStar series and is configured for tasks requiring a mid-range horsepower output.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by a Kohler Command CH20S, an air-cooled, horizontal-shaft, opposed-twin gasoline engine. It features a displacement of 622 cc (38 ci) and produces 20 hp (14.9 kW) at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine utilizes a dual-element air cleaner and is started via a 12-volt electric starter system.
Transmission and Chassis
The drivetrain consists of a shaft-driven hydrostatic transmission based on the Peerless 2600 transaxle, offering infinite forward and reverse speeds across two ranges. The chassis is equipped with two-wheel drive, power steering, and mechanical drum brakes. A mechanical rear differential lock was provided on specific models produced between 1987 and 1994 to improve traction.
Power Take-Off and Hydraulics
The unit is equipped with independent electric-clutch PTO systems. The front PTO is of the pulley type, while the rear PTO is optional and independent, rated at 2000 RPM. These systems allow for the operation of various attachments, including 48-inch or 60-inch mower decks.
Electrical and Dimensions
The electrical system operates on 12 volts with a negative ground, supported by a 400 CCA battery and a 15-amp flywheel alternator charging system. The tractor features a wheelbase of 51 inches (129 cm) and an overall length of 78 inches (198 cm). It is fitted with 16x6.50-8 front turf tires and 23x10.5-12 rear turf tires.
Conclusion
The Simplicity SunStar 20 is a robust, hydrostatic-drive garden tractor suitable for property owners requiring a versatile platform for mowing and ground-engaging tasks. Its combination of power steering, independent PTO options, and reliable Kohler engine construction positions it as a durable utility machine for varied landscape maintenance needs.
Production Information of Simplicity, SunStar 20
- Garden tractor
- Built in Port Washington, Wisconsin, USA
| Manufacturer | Simplicity |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer(optional) | $6,810 (1991 ) |
| Original price | $6,549 (1990 ) |
| Original price(optional) | $7,700 (1996 ) |
| Original price(optional) | $7,350 (1993 ) |
| Original price(optional) | $7,950 (1994 ) |
Dimension and Tires Information of Simplicity, SunStar 20
| Wheelbase | 51 inches [129 cm] |
|---|---|
| Height (steering wheel) | 47 inches [119 cm] |
| Length | 78 inches [198 cm] |
| Width | 38.25 inches [97 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x6.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x10.5-12 |
Engine Specifications of Simplicity, SunStar 20
- Kohler Command CH20S
- Air-cooled horizontal-shaft opposed-twin
- 2-cylinder
- The Kohler Command engine was used in the SunStar 20 from 1995 through 1997.
- Gasoline
| Sparkplug gap | 0.025 inches [0.635 mm] |
|---|---|
| Sparkplug | Champion RV15YC |
| Power (gross) | 20 hp [14.9 kW] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.03x2.64 inches [77 x 67 mm] |
| Air cleaner | Dual element |
| Displacement | 622 cc [38 ci] |
| Oil capacity | 1.75 qts [1.7 L] |
| Oil capacity | 2 qts [1.9 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Simplicity, SunStar 20
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 (2-range) |
Transmission variants 2
Mechanical Specs of Simplicity, SunStar 20
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
- Mechanical drum brakes
- Power steering
| Differential lock | Mechanical rear |
|---|
Differential lock on models built from 1987 to 1994.
Power Information of Simplicity, SunStar 20
| 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 20
| Rear Type(optional) | 0 |
|---|
Electrical System of Simplicity, SunStar 20
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Battery CCA | 400 |
| Charging system | Flywheel alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 20 HP, the Simplicity SunStar 20 sits just above SunStar 18 (18 HP) in Simplicity's range. Its power puts it in the 98th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Simplicity SunStar 20 have?
The Simplicity SunStar 20 delivers 20 HP.
What years was the Simplicity SunStar 20 produced?
The Simplicity SunStar 20 was produced in 1987-1997.
What engine does the Simplicity SunStar 20 have?
The Simplicity SunStar 20 is powered by a Gasoline, 2-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Simplicity SunStar 20 use?
The Simplicity SunStar 20 uses a Sundstrand 15 transmission.
Is the Simplicity SunStar 20 4WD?
The Simplicity SunStar 20 is available in 2WD.