Looking at a 127, things to consider?

[Rhoderman]

I'll be looking at a 127 soon, and like to know what I should look for, or what would be a deal breaker. Any input would be welcomed.

Here's what I know:

It's a 1972 127 Hydro. He says it "blew" the engine, but after I called him, he said it was a cracked tooth on the camshaft. He said he shut it down when it first started clicking, so the damage might be minimal.

He had taken it to a shop, they tore it down, went out of business, and returned a box of parts. Then engine is out of it, and presumably disassembled. I'm not sure how disassembled it really is. I'm thinking basket case.

He said it has been painted blue by a previous owner, but the paint isn't too bad.

Supposedly the deck has been gone through and all the bearings are good. The mower deck supposedly mows very well.

He put a new seat on it, replaced the brakes and fixed the loose steering before it shelled the engine.

He sent me a picture, but it's very low resolution, and you can tell it's a lawn tractor, that's about all.

Anyone ever heard of a cracked cam gear? Would that wreck the crank gear? Is the crank gear replaceable if it is damaged? Would this year of Kohler have had the plastic governer and possibly balance gears?

Sorry for all the questions, but I value your judgement. Also, is there anything else I should look for that would be a deal breaker?

He wants $300 for it, and won't budge as he said he'd keep it and rebuild it at a later date. He bought a simplicity to replace it for now.

Thanks all!

Jim