Fix it or throw it???

[Neo7]

Hi all,

I recently picked up a cheap "for parts" mower with an 18HP Motor...Kohler Command V-Twin (CV18s)

After close inspection I noticed the right hand piston did not move when I rotated the engine and there was a knock/clacking sound at one point in the rotation.

So I took the head off and I can see the Piston is jambed at (or near) the bottom of the cylinder. I tired tapping the piston top with a mallet and bar but it won't budge.

The crankcase and block are one on these engines so next step is a total strip down, but...
Could the cast iron cylinder liner be too badly damaged to save the block?
Could a broken con rod cause too much damage on the crank case?

Also, has anyone take these V-Twin engines apart before?....How hard are they to open up?

IS THIS ENGINE WORTH FIXING UP?


I can also see I need a screw-up puller to pull off the PTO and pulleys? .. Where do I find one of these?


Many thanks.
Neo

 

[twinfords]

very easy to take oil pan off and inspect, go from there. take lots of pictures.

 

[Neo7]

Many thanks.

I spoke to the Kohler importers and parts and re-boring will come to around $700. I can buy a 24HP brand new $1,200 so think I'm going to throw it.

All the best.
Neo7

 

[DaveTN]

Many thanks.

I spoke to the Kohler importers and parts and re-boring will come to around $700. I can buy a 24HP brand new $1,200 so think I'm going to throw it.

All the best.
Neo7

May as well save it for parts. Never know when you might find another one with another problem and take the two and make one good running machine. I've got engines lying about in various stages of repair or dis-repair depending on your POV. I salvaged a carburetor off a leaf blower the other day and put it on another machine and it ran like a sewing machine. On the engine you mentioned, just take the bottom off and check the condition. More likely than not it's a thrown rod. Sometimes it eats the crank, sometimes not. If you have the room, save it.