608KEB 794 #1 Posted December 29, 2017 (edited) I was looking for a few thoughts on a Wheel Horse 1996 312-8 that's for sale. It has the OHV and it appears to have a aluminum block. My question is how solid are these newer Kohler engines? I know very little about the overhead valve type engines. I was going to purchase it for my Dad who's 81. I'm guessing the rear axle is 1" diameter. So, this is a 1998 model? Edited December 30, 2017 by 608KEB 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 10,485 #2 Posted December 30, 2017 1996 models used the M12 cast iron engine. Perhaps it is newer than 1996. 1998 used the CH12.5 engine. I think the transmission will have 1-1/8" axles with double axle seals but only 4 of the usual 8 pinion gears. Garry 3 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Pollack Pete 2,273 #3 Posted December 30, 2017 Hmmmmm,I've never seen a 312-8 with ohv Kohler.Must be too new for me to look at.I know the old 312-8's with K series or Magnums are great tractors.I'm sure someone with knowledge of the OHV will chime in. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Racinbob 10,265 #4 Posted December 30, 2017 That looks like a Command motor which I believe was first used in 1998. I have one in a 2005. While I'm a fan of the old K-series the Command has been excellent. There should be a model number on a decal under the seat. 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ericj 1,576 #5 Posted December 30, 2017 (edited) i have a 99 314-8 I bought new, it's been in semi-retirement for a few years now, ran good, plenty of power, good on fuel. Just never revved quite as high as I thought it should. I did adjust linkage and get a little more out of it. I have a little over 300 hours on it. I would buy another if I had the chance and the price was right, CHEAP, have too many others now to justify buying another at this point. good luck eric j Edited December 30, 2017 by ericj 3 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
608KEB 794 #6 Posted January 5, 2018 900 mile round trip in 15 hours. What was in my rearview mirror? Pictures to follow. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dells68 7,494 #8 Posted January 5, 2018 Now quit that teasing stuff. We want to see the whole thing! 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oldredrider 2,547 #9 Posted January 5, 2018 31 minutes ago, dells68 said: Now quit that teasing stuff. We want to see the whole thing! That's what she said! 1 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dells68 7,494 #10 Posted January 5, 2018 8 minutes ago, oldredrider said: That's what she said! But i tried to tell her that's all I've got! 3 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
608KEB 794 #12 Posted January 5, 2018 (edited) If she wants to see the whole thing. I gotta use props! Edited January 6, 2018 by 608KEB 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
gwest_ca-(File Mod) 10,485 #13 Posted January 6, 2018 1999 model. The front quick hitch appears to be a long way back of the hood. Looks like it is under the axle. Just looks different. Garry Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JERSEYHAWG / Glenn 4,487 #14 Posted January 6, 2018 Looks nice, pop will luv it. Glenn Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
608KEB 794 #15 Posted January 6, 2018 Got a little of this and that to do to it. I'LL post some pics of my progress 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bslms 19 #16 Posted January 6, 2018 The Command engines are fine in my experience. I have had them on my commercial mowers and I like them a lot. They have pressurized lubrication with an oil filter which really extends the service interval. Be sure to use the correct oil (10W-30 I believe) check your manual. It's important as these engines have hydraulic lifters and need the right oil to function properly. Otherwise they are smooth and quiet and trouble free. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
608KEB 794 #17 Posted January 6, 2018 What is the parts number for the front wheel bearings? I want to use the RS bearings that don't need grease. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
953 nut 51,536 #18 Posted January 7, 2018 Check these out. https://www.ebay.com/itm/4-WHEEL-BEARINGS-TORO-WHEEL-HORSE-11-0513-25-1210-110513-and-251-3-4-x-1-3-8/281473149545?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksi 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
