I recently picked up a Lesco Viper at auction at the post office where my wife works. I payed $300. I know for a fact the 23hp Kawasaki is trash(inside info)
Now the important measurements are 1 1/8" x 3.94 or 3 15/16 or 100mm depending where you look. My question is can I put in a Briggs in place of the kawasaki or is there some reason this won't work. Anybody have an opinion on this?
Does the Briggs look like it will fit? I've only ever replaced a trashed 6hp Tecumseh with an 8hp Briggs. I had to change the orientation of the cylinder 90ｰ, fabricate the exhaust from plumbing parts and make a shaft adapter sleeve, but it worked. If the shaft isn't the same, that would be the hardest part for someone without access to a machine shop.
#3
reynoldston
Anything can be done with the right skills , tools and equipment. What is wrong with the Kawasaki?did you take it apart? When you say trashed, like a bomb went off in side it or just uses oil? I just repaired a Kawasaki that a valve broke and repaired it with a used head and piston.
Very true, reynoldston. I repaired an engine that threw a rod out through the crankcase with just a new rod, a piece of sheet aluminum, RTV silicone and sheet metal screws. Even though parts for these engines can be criminally expensive, a new engine costs more than a good used mower.
#5
Chev
I am pretty sure that a brigs or kohler are optional motors on that machine.
Should be relatively easy if you get the mounting bolt pattern worked out.
The original eng. has an extreme vibration flywheel ? plus it throws smoke like its on fire...I don't have the briggs I would have to buy it also, just trying to save some scratch on a mower that will be used in a residential setting. My father inlaw @ 66 has always had a rider w a belly mower and for years I have been after him him get a z well he is old school so hes still using that belly. I am intent on having this project done by xmas but was trying to find an alternative to the kawasaki and its price. Thanks for all your comments and yes I am a fair fabricator so I think I will give it a shot
