Briggs and stratton 12.5 hp I/C engine model number 286707, type number 0437-01

[Alaric11]

Had the opportunity to buy one for cheap and was wondering if it's a good engine, any insight and experience would be appreciated

 

[upupandaway]

I like them. I have them on my 80's sears mowers and only ever needed to change oil and add gas.
Borrow a cyl compression test tool from car parts store and test it before u buy it.
If it has the charging wire, test that it puts out 14/15ishVolts.
Listen for any loud rattling noises and it not leak oil.

Lastly, what are you using it on? Mine are on 38" mowers. If yours is larger cut, u likely need more HP.

 

[Alaric11]

Thanks for the info, the mower it would be going in would be an older craftsman LT 11 hp 36" mower, and it gets used as more of a toy these days, so I'd imagine power would be adequate