Wheel Horse A-81
Power
8 hp
Production
1978-1984
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Peerless 724A
Weight
365 lbs [165 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Wheel Horse A-81 Riding Lawn Mower
The Wheel Horse A-81 is a riding lawn mower produced between 1978 and 1984. Designed primarily for residential lawn maintenance, this compact machine belongs to the Wheel Horse A-series, which includes models such as the A-51, A-70, and A-111.
Engine and Powertrain
The tractor is powered by a Briggs & Stratton 191707 engine, a single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline unit with a displacement of 318 cc (19.44 cubic inches). It produces a gross power output of 8 hp (6.0 kW). The engine utilizes a vertical-shaft configuration and features an electric starter operating on a 12-volt electrical system with a negative ground.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is transferred to the wheels through a Peerless 724A belt-driven gear transmission, providing five forward gears and one reverse gear. The drivetrain features a two-wheel drive configuration, controlled via manual steering. The mid-mounted Power Take-Off (PTO) is independent and engaged through a mechanical idler pulley clutch system.
Dimensions and Chassis
The A-81 features a compact design with a wheelbase of 40.4 inches (102 cm) and an overall length of 54 inches (137 cm). The operator station is of the open type. The machine is equipped with 13x5.0-6 front tires and 15x6.0-6 rear tires, designed for turf applications. The shipping weight of the unit is approximately 365 lbs (165 kg).
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse A-81 is a dedicated lawn maintenance vehicle equipped with a 32-inch mower deck. Its simple mechanical design and modest power output make it well-suited for small to medium-sized residential properties. At its introduction in 1978, it was marketed with an original price of $845.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, A-81
- Riding lawn mower
- Original price was $845 in 1978
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, A-81
| Wheelbase | 40.4 inches [102 cm] |
|---|---|
| Shipping weight | 365 lbs [165 kg] |
| Length | 54 inches [137 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 41 inches [104 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 13x5.0-6 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 15x6.0-6 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, A-81
- Briggs & Stratton 191707
- Air-cooled vertical-shaft
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power (gross) | 8 hp [6.0 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 318 cc [19.44 ci] |
| Starter | Electric |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.00x2.75 inches [76 x 70 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, A-81
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Peerless 724A |
|---|---|
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, A-81
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Power Information of Wheel Horse, A-81
| Mid PTO | Independent |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Mechanical idler pulley |
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, A-81
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 8 HP, the Wheel Horse A-81 sits between A-51 (5 HP) and A-111 (11 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 52th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse A-81 have?
The Wheel Horse A-81 delivers 8 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse A-81 produced?
The Wheel Horse A-81 was produced in 1978-1984.
What engine does the Wheel Horse A-81 have?
The Wheel Horse A-81 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse A-81 use?
The Wheel Horse A-81 uses a Peerless 724A transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse A-81 weigh?
The Wheel Horse A-81 weighs 365 lbs [165 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse A-81 4WD?
The Wheel Horse A-81 is available in 2WD.