Alrashid2 382 #1 Posted April 9 Hey guys. I always keep an eye on the local FB Marketplace and I saw a guy selling what looked to be an in good shape K321 Kohler 14 HP engine off of a wheel horse. I thought it could be used for spare parts / swapping parts for troubleshooting, or even to replace my K301 12HP on my 312-8 if it ever needs replaced. A few questions: What's a decent price for a working K321 engine? Not sure if the price he is asking is worthwhile or not How hard is it to swap a K301 and a K321 in a 312-8 tractor? Are they plug and play, or would there need to be modifications made? How do you start and stop an engine pulled from a tractor without a key, ignition, etc? How can i test it and play with it? Thanks guys!! 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JoeM 7,920 #2 Posted April 9 Lots of missing info on this one. Some engines are shaker plate mounts and some mount with the base. Not sure what you have. It is pretty tough to get a feel for an engine that has been removed. Might want to stick to ones that at least can be run on the frame. When looking at used engines, one place to look is at he throttle linkage where the rods attach. If they have a lot of hours there will be slop. Also, the throttle shaft is another place to look. Looking at prices, might just want to get a spare machine??? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
953 nut 57,739 #3 Posted April 9 (edited) 12 hours ago, Alrashid2 said: How hard is it to swap a K301 and a K321 in a 312-8 tractor? Are they plug and play, or would there need to be modifications made? How do you start and stop an engine pulled from a tractor without a key, ignition, etc? How can i test it and play with it? Presuming the K-321 has a battery ignition and the 312-8 has a magnum you will just need to add a relay or two so the seat safety switch will function properly . I have attached a thread that tells you how to do that job depending on the ignition switch number your 312 has. Like @JoeM said, testing would best be done on a tractor but you will need a fuel supply, a battery and something solid to mount the engine to. Type of ignition and charging system will determine the wiring needed. If you buy it post the engine Spec Number and we can go from there. Edited April 9 by 953 nut Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Alrashid2 382 #4 Posted April 9 Thanks guys. The guy was asking $150 which seemed cheaper than most I've seen. I just wanted something to learn with and to have as a backup as I've got a bit of blowby on my K301. I think I might pass, you all brought up good points I didn't think about... Already too busy for half my hobbies so no point in dropping a bill and a half on something else I don't have time for! Thanks guys 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oliver2-44 10,323 #5 Posted April 10 $150 for a used engine is not a terrible price. All/ 99% of the parts are identical to your K301, just the block has a bigger hole bored in it. While it would be nice to hear it run, you can't tell everything until it's under load. I bought a used engine and test ran it at the sellers place used jumper cable directly to starter to start it. Alligator clip from battery to coil Intermittently sprayed gas or carb cleaner in throat of carb. Bolted to nothing, at idle it gently hopped around so I held it down with my foot on the head. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
