Kawasaki FS600V 20 HP Vertical Shaft Engine | Model ES00S
Product Overview
The Kawasaki FS600V S00/S (ES00S) is a premium commercial-grade vertical shaft engine designed for the most demanding professional turf care applications. Delivering a robust 20 horsepower from its 603cc V-twin platform, this engine is the powerplant of choice for commercial landscapers, golf course superintendents, and municipal grounds crews who require uncompromising reliability and performance in their zero-turn mowers and commercial walk-behinds.
Built with Kawasaki’s renowned engineering excellence, the FS600V features a durable overhead valve (OHV) design that maximizes efficiency and engine life while reducing emissions and operating noise. The V-twin configuration provides exceptional torque and remarkably smooth operation, significantly reducing vibration for less operator fatigue during long workdays. This specific S00/S model is engineered with commercial-duty components, including a large-capacity charging system and industrial-grade bearings, ensuring maximum durability under continuous heavy loads.
When your business depends on equipment that starts every morning and runs all day, the Kawasaki FS600V delivers the proven performance and legendary reliability that professionals trust season after season.
Small Engine Resources & Guides
Technical Specifications
| Specification Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Model Code | FS600V-S00-S (ES00S) |
| Engine Series | Kawasaki FR/FS V-Twin Series |
| Horsepower | 20 HP |
| Displacement | 603 cc |
| Cylinders | 2 (V-Twin Configuration) |
| Shaft Orientation | Vertical |
| Shaft Size & Type | 1-1/8″ Diameter, Keyway (Length specific to application) |
| Cooling System | Air-Cooled with Pressurized Oil System |
| Valve System | Overhead Valve (OHV) |
| Starter Type | Electric Start |
| Fuel System | Carbureted (with Fuel Pump) |
| Ignition System | Electronic (CDI) |
| PTO Type | Commercial, Electric Clutch (Front PTO) |
| Charging System | 25 Amp Alternator |
| Oil Capacity | 2.1 Quarts (2.0 Liters) |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded 87 Octane or Higher |
🖼️ IMAGE: [kawasaki-fs600v-technical-specifications.png]
Alt-text: Technical diagram of Kawasaki FS600V engine showing dimensions, shaft specs, and component locations for commercial mower installation.
What’s Included (Typical Replacement Engine)
| Included | Not Included / Required Separately |
|---|---|
| ✓ Complete Long Block Assembly | ✗ Muffler / Exhaust System |
| ✓ Carburetor & Air Cleaner Assembly | ✗ PTO Clutch |
| ✓ Electric Starter Motor | ✗ Wiring Harness & Connectors |
| ✓ Fuel Pump | ✗ Engine Mounting Hardware |
| ✓ Oil Alert Low-Oil Shutdown | ✗ Engine Mounting Isolators |
| ✓ Flywheel with Blower Housing | �* Spark Plugs |
🛠️ Recommended Replacement Parts & Accessories
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Air Filter: Kawasaki OEM Dual Element Air Filter
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Oil Filter: Kawasaki 49065-7006 Oil Filter
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Spark Plugs: NGK BPR5ES Spark Plug Set
Comparison Table: FS600V vs. Alternative Engines
| Feature | Kawasaki FS600V | Competitive 20HP V-Twin | Smaller Commercial Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 603cc (Larger, More Torque) | 540-580cc | 426-540cc |
| Durability | Commercial Rated (Heavy-Duty) | Commercial Duty | Light Commercial |
| Vibration | Very Low (Smooth V-Twin) | Low | Moderate |
| Parts Availability | Excellent (OEM & Aftermarket) | Good | Good |
| Charging System | 25 Amp (Strong) | 15-23 Amp | 15-18 Amp |
| Resale Value | High (Brand Reputation) | Moderate | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What equipment uses the Kawasaki FS600V ES00S engine?
A: This engine is commonly found in commercial zero-turn riding mowers from top manufacturers like:
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Scag (Turf Tiger, V-Ride II)
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Exmark (Lazer Z, Quest)
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John Deere (Z900 Series)
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Ferris (IS 3000Z, IS 2100Z)
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Other premium commercial mower brands
Q2: How do I confirm this is the correct replacement for my machine?
A: The most reliable method is to:
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Locate the model and spec number on your original engine’s sticker.
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Match it exactly to the replacement engine (FS600V-S00-S).
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Measure the vertical shaft length, diameter, and keyway size.
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Verify the mounting bolt pattern and overall height clearance.
Q3: What maintenance does this engine require?
A: For commercial use, adhere to a strict schedule:
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Oil & Filter Change: Every 50-100 hours (use 10W-30)
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Air Filter Service: Check every 25 hours, replace as needed
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Spark Plug Replacement: Every 200-300 hours
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Valve Lash Adjustment: Every 500 hours or seasonally
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Fuel Filter Replacement: Annually or as needed
🖼️ IMAGE: [kawasaki-fs600v-maintenance-points.jpg]
Alt-text: *Close-up of a Kawasaki FS600V engine with arrows pointing to oil fill, filter, air filter, and spark plugs for routine maintenance.*
Q4: What is the advantage of the 603cc displacement?
A: The larger 603cc displacement provides:
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More torque at lower RPMs for better cutting performance in heavy grass
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Less strain on the engine during demanding conditions
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Longer engine life due to lower operating stress
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Better fuel efficiency under load compared to smaller engines producing the same horsepower
Q5: What is the typical lifespan of this engine?
A: With proper maintenance and professional operation, a commercial-grade Kawasaki FS600V can reliably deliver 2,000 to 3,000+ hours of service before potentially requiring major work. Many commercial operations get 5-10 seasons of heavy use from these engines.
Internal Link: Maximize your engine’s life with our Commercial Mower Engine Maintenance Checklist.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Commercial Grade Durability: Built for heavy-duty, daily use. | Premium Price Point: Higher initial cost than consumer-grade engines. |
| Smooth V-Twin Power: 20 HP provides ample torque with low vibration. | Precise Fitment Required: Must match exact model suffix for compatibility. |
| Kawasaki Reliability: Industry-leading reputation for quality and longevity. | Complex Installation: May require integration of existing muffler, wiring, and controls. |
| Excellent Parts Support: Wide availability of OEM and aftermarket components. | |
| Overhead Valve Efficiency: Better fuel economy and longer service life than SV engines. |
Conclusion & Ideal Use Case
The Kawasaki FS600V S00/S (ES00S) is the definitive choice for professional landscapers and serious property owners who cannot afford downtime. It is engineered to restore peak performance to high-end commercial mowing equipment.
This engine is perfectly suited for:
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Commercial Landscaping Companies
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Golf Course and Sports Turf Maintenance
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Municipal and Government Grounds Crews
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Replacing worn-out engines on Scag, Exmark, Ferris, and other premium mowers
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Any application where commercial reliability and power are non-negotiable.
If you demand an engine that matches the quality of your commercial equipment and provides years of dependable service, the Kawasaki FS600V is the benchmark in its class.
🔗 Official Technical Resource
For detailed service manuals, torque specifications, and specific maintenance procedures, always refer to the Kohler Engines Manuals & Resources portal for the most accurate information.
