18HP Vanguard replacement for a KT17 issues.

[Johnd]

Originally Posted by CubDieselFan

Here you go.

https://www.smallenginewarehouse.com...t-682-Category

Expensive, yep. Better than buying a new mower.

Got engine, thanks! A Vanguard 18hp, a so called drop in replacement for the original Kohler KT17.

There's a couple glitches so far.

1. The distance from the PTO pulley to the crankshaft back face is 3/4" too short. I need a solution for that. Stretching the driveshaft is not an option.

2. The new engine spacers supplied to the old PTO back plate are too thick to be able to bolt the PTO assembly on to the crank with the new bolt. I used the original thinner spacers and removed one of the new brass spacers (of the three supplied) that goes on the shaft behind the PTO. There's no room for the new crank bolt lock washer either.

[Sam Mac]

I suggest that you contact the supplier.

[Farmall450]

Originally Posted by Sam Mac

I suggest that you contact the supplier.

Ditto -- ask them what's going on, send a few pictures or better yet call them. If it's a direct fit that shouldn't be going on?

Also, it's very easy to modify the driveshaft length.

[Johnd]

Originally Posted by Sam Mac

I suggest that you contact the supplier.

The supplier (Small Engine Warehouse) emails;

"John, I attached the adapter drawing "it looks like bolts are 1/4 by 20 thread" you might try to find some 3/4" spacers or washers. I don't have any spec for the clutch you might try the tractor dealer for this info. Thank you"

So I ordered some 1/4" x 1-1/4" thick fender washers and longer bolts from Amazon to fill the 3/4" gap from the engine to the driveshaft flex connector. I found in my supply of nuts and bolts, a longer bolt to attach the PTO clutch.

[Sam Mac]

Post some pics so we can see what your issue is.

[Oak]

I would move the engine so that the pto is in the proper location and just make a new driveshaft. I made one using a crappy drill press and it works fine. Just find a good piece of shaft like this stuff and you should be good to go for less than $35 or give Jeff a shout and he can make you one.


https://www.onlinemetals.com/en/buy/...nish/pid/15486

[ol'George]

Tractor supply has 5/8 shafting in the welding area with the angle iron usually.

[Farmall450]

Originally Posted by Oak

I would move the engine so that the pto is in the proper location and just make a new driveshaft. I made one using a crappy drill press and it works fine. Just find a good piece of shaft like this stuff and you should be good to go for less than $35 or give Jeff a shout and he can make you one.


https://www.onlinemetals.com/en/buy/...nish/pid/15486

I'd just slice the old one and sleeve it with some pipe of slightly smaller ID than the original shaft's OD. Plug weld and you're golden.