replacement engine for 1960 suburban 400

[Luke 9]

Ok, so I'm tired of exhausting myself trying to start this old kohler engine for my boy. I think it's a k90. It's original in the 60' Suburban 400. Rather than rebuild,  I'd like to replace it with a newer, more reliable engine that my boy can start on his own. Is there a new engine out there that will directly fit without modifying the hood or chassis? We measured the shaft with the pulleys still on, and believe it is 5/8. Are there any specs I should look for? I realize purists will shiver at replacing a working engine with a modern engine, but what good is the tractor, if my boy can't start it on his own.

[Luke 9]

 

[Lane Ranger 10,943]

That Kohler K90 should be an easy start motor.   No new motor is going to easily replace the K 90.    The Red Square gang can help you with getting it to run , parts, timing  and or a rebuild if it is needed.  

[AMC RULES 37,127]

  So, when you're ready to get rid ot that tired old K90...let me know, I'll come get it. .    

[buckrancher 2,679]

shaft size should be 3/4"

[Hodge71 664]

That motor needs some attention if it wont start. You might try some serious troubleshooting. I have a Suburban 400 with the K-91. It is all original and has never been rebuilt. It didn't run when I got it ( I actually picked up 4 round hoods because the guy had no idea where to begin troubleshooting why they wouldn't start.) I rebuilt the carb, cleaned the points and that 400 fires up on the second pull every time.  First pull, full choke, sputter, second pull starts right up unless its less than 20 degrees than it needs 3 to start. Putting a new engine is no substitute for finding whats wrong with yours. Its a skill you need anyhow if you're serious about these awesome old tractors. 

Edited August 29, 2013 by hodge71

[VinsRJ 721]

A K90 would not be original for a 60 400, the motor should be a K91 with a 3/4" shaft... the correct SPEC No. I do not remember off hand (at work now).

 

As for starting the small K-Series... it should fire easily. I would go through the entire ignition system from the points to the flywheel magnents with a process of clean or replace.

 

Now on the subject of replacement motors, I have replaced a number of RJs and Suburbans with a Harbor Frieght clone engine (6.5hp). You will have to modify the clone engine's muffler system but other than that it fits under the hood of either model (RJ/Suburban) without need of modifying the hood or frame. Also the belt guards mount without modification.

[bean 85]

if you wanted to get a newer replacement, that somewhat keeps the original look, you could get a Honda gs160  .

it is a lighter version of their commercial series

Edited August 29, 2013 by bean

[Luke 9]

if you wanted to get a newer replacement, that somewhat keeps the original look, you could get a Honda gs160  .

it is a lighter version of their commercial seriesuntitled.png

I'm afraid the exhaust location of the Honda gs160 would be dangerous to the driver, considering the mounting location on a 1960 Suburban.

[bean 85]

that would be a problem

Edited August 29, 2013 by bean

[SousaKerry 501]

Sounds like a good father son project to me to get the K-91 running again, I am sure you will both learn something in the process.