Engine swap question
 

I have a Cub Cadet LT1018. It originally had a 18.5 Briggs that blew up on me. Now I have a 18 Briggs that smokes and makes a screeching noise. I'm sure it has a spun bearing. I have an old 15 HP Snapper mower that was hydro static drive, only thing is it was a manual blade engagement. My question is, can I put my PTO on the 15 hp and run my blades?

If the shaft size is the same I see no reason why not.

Thanks, I knew coming here would help I don't usually have to ask questions here I've been working on mowers since I was 5 years old but I have never swapped down this far from a 18.5