TX that maybe your perception of WN, but in my experience it is far from accurate. My experience with the company started when they started designing their SSL and CTLs. They hired an engineer from another major OEM that I had got to know from a customer clinic to run the project. When he was hired by WN, he asked me to come to Austria and provide input on the new machines. I did that. The machine manufacturing was then moved to Wi after the initial run. They hired additional engineer's from major oem's and created their current machines. They don't have the name recognition of brands we are more familiar with, but collectively are responsible for designing some of the machines that are iconic in the industry from other OEM's. The company is very impressive, and the team that designs these machines is also very impressive. They know how to build compact equipment. As for the Kohler engine, it is warrantied currently to 4k hours in their SSLs. If there is another engine OEM that has a standard warranty that is longer, I am not aware of it. I have been loaned them for a month at at time (the 75 horse machines) and was happy with them. I have not run their 100 hp machines, but would certainly like to. They are well built and well designed.
The downside is dealer support. There is not a WN dealer around every corner. My closest one that handles SSL's and mini excavators is 4 hours away. I could also discuss their mini excavator line, but perhaps another day. The short of the story, their products are not disposable. Take a look under the cab of their SSL and CTLs compared to everyone else's and you will see what I mean. They are not perfect, but I will say, very well done.
