Quote:
Originally posted by SpeedracerIndy
I'd rather just plug a new motor on there if possible, but I don't know about compatability issues. Anyone have experience with this sort of thing?
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As others have suggested, a short-block or full replacement engine is a good choice. A key point for a proper fit is the crankshaft length. Measure the distance between the engine base and the tip of the crank. Make sure the new engine is identical; you don't want the blade to ride too high or low inside the mower deck, for obvious safety and cut quality issues. "One size" does not fit all.
Don't be too quick to put on a more powerful engine, as the additional output of HP and torque could overstress the mower deck and blade. Lawnmowers are built to a price point, and costs are tight. You can be assured if the original engine was 5 hp, the rest of the the mower was built to handle 5 hp, but not more, because it would increase the costs.
Next, check control lever connections. Assuming you have a standard mower, with a flywheel brake (a.k.a. "deadman") lever, verify the cable that controls it is correctly adjusted and shuts down the engine when you release the lever.
Double-check the thottle cable/lever (if present) and make sure the throttle is actually wide-open when you have the lever in the FAST position. Otherwise, the blade will spin too slow and you'll have cut quality problems.
Find out the torque specification for the blade bolt(s) and use a torque wrench; don't leave off any blade hardware, such as a curved washer. And, while it may sound silly, make sure the blade is installed in the right direction...it's a common error to get it in upside-down.
-Robert "lawnmower/generator/tiller/snowblower/string trimmer, etc." guy