dougr583 0 #1 Posted July 4, 2011 What options are there for motor swaps for the 310-8? I'd like to have more power, noodling on the idea of a bigger motor but don't want to have to do too much finagling to get it in there. Really, the Magnum 10 is all I need, although there have been times when I was clearing snow that another 5 HP would have come in handy. The best option may just be to get another tractor, been keeping my eyes open for a 520. It would be hard to part with my 310, it's only got 500 hours on it, looks and runs great, but "more power", and all that. :woohoo: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,348 #2 Posted July 4, 2011 :woohoo: What is the ID number or year of your 310-8? 1987 looks like the first year for the Magnum engine on the 310, and the parts list show up 18HP could be put on that frame. I don't know what else would have to be changed. I'm sure others will chime in with more definitive answers. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
IthacaJeff 151 #3 Posted July 4, 2011 I can't see that adding a larger engine will be terribly cost effective, compared to buying another tractor. I'd look for a 400 series, or 314, with a Kohler, and put it in the stable. That way you'll have a spare tractor along with the added horsepower. I love my 310. It will run all day long plowing, cart pulling, and tilling (could use a few more hp for tilling, though). The 416 is used for mowing. When one tractor has been down the other has been there. I've swapped out mower deck parts, PTO parts, and more. I'd just as soon have two 416s, but the fuel consumption of the 310 can't be beat. If the 310 can't run the blower well, how about a plow? Jeff in Enfield NY Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
HankB 16 #4 Posted July 4, 2011 Maybe make it a 312-8 with a K301. It seems like that is one of the more popular Kohler engines and that would make it easier to find and less expensive. Only thing to look out for is the various pans they came with as I think that affects the mounts. And if it didn't come form another WH tractor, you need to worry about the crank end where you mount the pulley. And you need to make sure it has a thrust bearing to handle pressure from the clutch. I guess there are a few things to worry about. And only 2 additional HP. If you really want a 520H, go with that. The 310-8 will make a great second tractor! Edit: :woohoo: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dougr583 0 #5 Posted July 4, 2011 the fuel consumption of the 310 can't be beat. I swear mine makes gas, it amazes me. Even running the snow blower it just seems like it will run forever. If the 310 can't run the blower well, how about a plow? We don't usually get enough snow to use the blower, but the first year I had it we got three really big snows. The first was heavy and wet, the single-stage blower didn't do a good job at all. The last one was 22", a single-day record for us. It was powdery and the blower was throwing it 50 feet, it was a blast. But there were places near the edge of the street (yeah, I cleared our entire street ) where previous snows had been piled, it was too much for the little single cylinder 10HP motor and I had to back off. Now, how often will that happen in Dayton Ohio? Not very often. Last winter I never even put the snow blower on the tractor, just used the blade. I'd look for a 400 series, or 314, with a Kohler, and put it in the stable. That way you'll have a spare tractor along with the added horsepower. Can I have you talk to my wife? She's the one we have to convince that I need two tractors. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dougr583 0 #6 Posted July 4, 2011 What is the ID number or year of your 310-8? 1987 looks like the first year for the Magnum engine on the 310, and the parts list show up 18HP could be put on that frame. I don't know what else would have to be changed. I'm sure others will chime in with more definitive answers. It's a 1990. 18 HP would be sweet. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dougr583 0 #7 Posted July 4, 2011 Maybe make it a 312-8 with a K301. It seems like that is one of the more popular Kohler engines and that would make it easier to find and less expensive. Only thing to look out for is the various pans they came with as I think that affects the mounts. And if it didn't come form another WH tractor, you need to worry about the crank end where you mount the pulley. And you need to make sure it has a thrust bearing to handle pressure from the clutch. I guess there are a few things to worry about. And only 2 additional HP. If you really want a 520H, go with that. The 310-8 will make a great second tractor! Edit: You're probably right. I could probably do the swap, it would be a fun project. But having two tractors would make me very happy too. Thanks for the input everyone! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
can whlvr 994 #8 Posted July 5, 2011 2 tractors is handy,with these older tractors sometimes i have to wait for parts,like allways every time i order,so its handy to have a spare and then 2 implements are ready and waiting,dont count out the 14,16 hp single kohlers,they are very strong Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
shorts 182 #9 Posted July 7, 2011 :woohoo: my choice would be a C160 and then repower the 310 with a 10hp china diesel, when you start working it it should feel like 20hp Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
JoeMonag 1 #10 Posted July 9, 2011 I agree with the other post, the 310-8 is a great basic tractor, although it has an 8 speed, it has the 1" axle and four pinion trans. I have a 310-8 and a 416-8. It is nice to have both. In the winter I keep a 44" two stage blower onthr 416. In the spring I put on a Johnny Bucket Jr. on it. I keep a belt driven generator and a 42" plow onthe 310 year round. The 310 is cheap to run and drive the generator. The plow is needed for those times in the winter when snow turns to slush and is great in the warm weather for finish grading around my property. I suggest look around for a 4 or 5 series and keep the 310 as is. You won't be disappointed. Joe in Norton Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SAM58 30 #11 Posted July 9, 2011 I swear mine makes gas, it amazes me. Even running the snow blower it just seems like it will run forever. Now, how often will that happen in Dayton Ohio? Not very often. Last winter I never even put the snow blower on the tractor, just used the blade. Can I have you talk to my wife? She's the one we have to convince that I need two tractors. I found my 520H in the Dayton, Ohio area.... My wife didn't give me much trouble until the forth one, but I bought fixed up and sold until I found the two I wanted the most. Tell her one is for mowing, and the other is for pushing snow & gravel. And everyone needs a spare, or two, or three.... :D Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
