well guys, after removing the engine and taking the lower half off, it immediatly became apparent how severe the damage was inside...
you might be able to tell by the pic, but the rod was 'all galled up' where the bearing should be, so after giving the crankshaft a quick fingering, it was apparent that i would either need a new crankshaft or [does anyone] have the journal turned/ground
pass on that, time to go after a new or used engine...
so, with that being said, can anyone recommend some good websites for new/used 12hp briggs?