KT-17 Series 2 Build 24302

[djknoedler]

Hello everyone. I'm brand new on here so forgive me if I missed a more appropriate thread/area.

I recently purchased a 782 (1981 or 1982 production) with what appears to be the original KT-17 Series 2. It ran fairly well but would smoke after 30 minutes.

Breather hose was torn and I discovered extremely dirty intake valves/chambers, a leaky head gasket, and very clogged up cooling fins. Cylinders look good but I haven't cracked it apart to check the rings.

I've already figured out this engine isn't worth sinking more than $200 bucks or so in it. Parts are getting hard to find and are extremely expensive-can't get a genuine Kohler rebuild kit either. If I can get the valves and seats clean and re-check compression and it's good---I'll run it. If not, I think a repower is in order.

I'd be interested in opinions on Honda GX versus Briggs Vanguard?

Also, I'm looking for a dual spool valve and lever assembly to add front blade angle if anyone has any ideas?

[J-Mech]

Originally Posted by djknoedler

Hello everyone. I'm brand new on here so forgive me if I missed a more appropriate thread/area.

I recently purchased a 782 (1981 or 1982 production) with what appears to be the original KT-17 Series 2. It ran fairly well but would smoke after 30 minutes.

Breather hose was torn and I discovered extremely dirty intake valves/chambers, a leaky head gasket, and very clogged up cooling fins. Cylinders look good but I haven't cracked it apart to check the rings.

I've already figured out this engine isn't worth sinking more than $200 bucks or so in it. Parts are getting hard to find and are extremely expensive-can't get a genuine Kohler rebuild kit either. If I can get the valves and seats clean and re-check compression and it's good---I'll run it. If not, I think a repower is in order.

I'd be interested in opinions on Honda GX versus Briggs Vanguard?

Also, I'm looking for a dual spool valve and lever assembly to add front blade angle if anyone has any ideas?

If it is a Series II motor it is not the original one. The Series II had a pressurized oil filtration system. Does this motor have an oil filter? I don't know where you are pricing parts... But I would use non other than this engine. It is worth rebuilding. I've never had trouble finding parts for them. And as far as price, yeah, they maybe pricey but its still a better engine than any Briggs. I know a lot of guys are proud of their Honda motors, but I've never been impressed. You can't beat the torque of a horizontal opposed Kohler. IMHO...... And it is that only, MY OPINION.

NOTE: I would only rebuild it IF it is a real Series II. If not, I would recommend finding a Series II and put it in.

[R Bedell]

The Series II had a pressurized oil filtration system. Does this motor have an oil filter?

NOT all Series II engines had an Oil Filter provision.

[djknoedler]

I think Roland is correct. Not all KTs had a spin on filter yet all Series 2s were pressurized. Kohler used to make a plate with hoses and a filter mount for owners to retrofit but it appears they are no longer made and I can't find any new old stock.

Parts are running scarce and high unless I'm missing a good site. I even called Kohler direct-pistons alone were a few hundred as were internals.

Most Cub people who have retrofitted are swearing by the Briggs Vanguards while some others tout the Honda GX line due to forged internals, etc. I have several other pieces of equipment with Honda GXs and they seem to be bulletproof and have a longer warranty.

I'm all ears for better sources for parts.

Thanks.

[Sam Mac]

If you go the repower route and want to save a few $$ look for a Cub 2185 and put the CH18 in it with the muffler from a Cyclops like an 1863 then about all you need is a drive shaft.

[J-Mech]

Originally Posted by Sam Mac

If you go the repower route and want to save a few $$ look for a Cub 2185 and put the CH22 in it with the muffler from a Cyclops like an 1863 then about all you need is a drive shaft.

This also is a very good option!

[J-Mech]

Originally Posted by R Bedell

NOT all Series II engines had an Oil Filter provision.

Did they not have the provision, or just not all had the remote filter? I can't seem to locate a parts blowout that would prove one way or another....

[djknoedler]

My understanding is that all series 2's have a plate that can and sometimes was removed allowing the install of the kit. There is one on eBay right now-except they are missing the engine side of the kit.

Kit=engine plate/2 hoses/filter mount.

So far recommendations for new repower have been Vanguard 18 or 23 as well as Honda GX630.

Prices shipped are roughly $1,600 for the Vanguard 18, $2,300 for the Vanguard 23, and $2,150 for the Honda which is 21 or 24 HP depending on where you look. Leaning towards the Vanguard 18 as it should be plenty.

[djknoedler]

Here are some links:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Remote-Oil-F...item41740848ea

http://www.jackssmallengines.com/Pro...il-Filter-Kits

[J-Mech]

The one of e-bay isn't missing anything..... For that price I'd get it. You can do whatever you want, I'd stick with Kohler.