Repairs Can I use a brigs to repower in place of a Kawasaki?

[Golden Gate]

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?

 

[oldyellr]

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.

 

[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.

 

[oldyellr]

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.

 

[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.

 

[Golden Gate]

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

 

[benski]

You might keep an eye out on Craigslist as well. Some interesting stuff comes and goes..:wink: