This is the 12 hp Kohler K301 that is all cast iron. The output shaft
bearing is a standard ball bearing with a 1.574" ID and around 4" OD.
I've never seen such a massive bearing on a small engine. The flywheel
end is the same 7/8" that most similar engines use for the drive end. It
took two of us using a chain and sling to move if from the garage to the
shop, feels like it weighs around 100 pounds.

Everything looks good inside except for a chip taken out of the lower
cylinder, perhaps 3/4" square.

My local supplier has a piston, rings, and rod package for about $70.
I'll check for taper and all that, good chance I'll bore it oversize.
It's about due after all those years!

The engine was in a '64 Cub Cadet tractor that I've had since the '70's.
About every 10 to 15 years I hone the bore and put new rings in. That
little chore was scheduled for this fall, had one more 1/2 hour session
before layup. Blew on startup.

The cylinder fins were completely caked in dust, no air flow what so
ever. Suspect is was running way hot, burned the oil, finally grabbed
the rod bearing .

Wes wrote:
RoyJ wrote:

Heavy emphasis on 'carefully'?? I'm looking for the magic bullet!!

Actually, I was really pleased that the engine looks rebuildable.


If there isn't a hole in the case, you got a good chance. I've fixed a few law mowers
when I was a kid.

That lye thing is looking good from the responses. Wash crank then clean and oil after
the lye bath.

Just out of curiosity, what is the engine mounted in?

Wes