Rebuild Magnum vs new B&S Vanguard
 

The Kohler Magnum 18HP Series II in my 782 is burning lots of oil and loosing power. It has gotten to the point that I really can't use the tractor. So I think I have two options: get a rebuilt Magnum long block from Kustom Small Engine or get a B&S Vanguard from Small Engine Warehouse. Either way the cost is about $1,500.

With the rebuilt everything should fit as before, and the Vanguard is advertised to fit but "some adapting during installation should be expected" which I presume to mean potential problems with the drive shaft. Supposedly the Vanguard is a cleaner running engine and more fuel efficient. Conversely the Magnum is supposed to have more torque due to the opposed cylinders.

Any suggestions or experience on a 782 repower?

There is no such thing as a Magnum Series II.

As for suggestions, keep an eye out for used Mag's. If that isn't an option, then repower via a short block isn't a bad idea. I'd actually, if it were me, keep an eye out for a used Command as they are solid engines. A little fab would be needed but it'd be worth it.

FWIW I'd go Kohler Mag or Command over Breaks and Scrapiron. Ahem, sorry; Biggs and Stratton. :bigthink: :beerchug:

Good catch on the Magnum Series II. I got confused between my 682 with a Series I and my 782 with the Magnum. On the engines group postings there is a discussion on the HF V-Twin engines (a Honda clone) which would be half the cost of a rebuild. But Harbor Freight doesn't quite have a reputation for high quality.