MXL 0 #1 Posted February 6, 2012 Has anyone fitted a new engine in a 1960 Wheel Horse Suburban. The old engine is A Lauson H55B. My tractor is all painted and re-assembled and I can't find anyone who says they can rebuild the old engine due to a lack of parts availabilty. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Old Ways 30 #2 Posted February 6, 2012 Yeah, I have a friend who did in an RJ (I think), let me see if I can get a pic. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
smoreau 658 #3 Posted February 6, 2012 I thought that the lauson engines were in 61. My 60 has a kohler 4hp k91 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Rooster 191 #4 Posted February 7, 2012 They can be re-built...but it takes some ingenuity and Non Tecumseh parts. If you really want the tractor to stay "correct" with the Tecumseh or Lauson it can be done. Another option, you could also use the K91 in it, that would be "more correct" for that tractor than a newer engine. I thought that the lauson engines were in 61. My 60 has a kohler 4hp k91 The "Suburban" Mid-engine tractors were made in 1960 & 1961. The 1960 400 model and the 1961 401 Had the 4hp K91. The 1960 550 and 1961 551 Model had the H55B Lauson/Tecumseh OK..how did I do? LOL Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
MXL 0 #5 Posted February 7, 2012 Rooster, Thanks for the feedback. I'll look into that engine. And hopefully real soon I will replace my generic picture to a Picture of the tractor. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkyhawkTL 19 #6 Posted February 11, 2012 I restored a 1961 551 Suburban that came with a Tecumseh H55D-2113. These are great engines and just need to be maintained correctly. While some parts are difficult to find, I had no problem bringing this right back to spec. The H60 Tecumseh engines are virtually direct replacements and they are fairly common and easy to locate. Mechanically; the Slinger rod oil system should be used instead of the oil pump. Fuel Side; new replacement carbs are available to eliminate vacuum leaks. (Strong intake manifold signal and easy starting) Electric Side; The ignition side is dependable and strong - just tune it up. The Charger is VERY basic (No regulator) but it is easy to bring up to speed - if needed. The battery is only used to start the engine. The tough question is - rebuild and Keep it Exactly Original - a true H55, or upgrade to the H60. Whatever choice You make will be the right one. (Plus - there are those who slam the Tecumseh design for whatever reason - I've found them to be wrong.) Good luck and have fun. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ken B 3,165 #7 Posted February 14, 2012 I'll say this, the Lauson's sure do look pretty when they are done up like yours. I'd love too find a Suburban with a good one on it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
AMC RULES 37,143 #8 Posted February 14, 2012 Gorgeous resto Skyhawk, is there a thread that covers it here on the forum? :scratchead: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SkyhawkTL 19 #9 Posted February 17, 2012 Thanks - had it since it was new (My dads - I was a kid), and now it's good for another 50 years - (150?). The restoration was fun, and I should put together a thread. Wheel Horse is a great tractor - and this site is packed with talent. I mean really great talent - I love Bob Maynard's B100s....... just perfect. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
