ronhatch 406 #1 Posted March 14, 2013 My little 8 HP 857 developed a rod knock while plowing snow a couple of weeks ago. ;-( I'm thinking this would be a good time to up grade to a 10 or even a 12 HP Kohler. My question is; will the bigger block fit under the hood and is there enough frame length for the 10HP? Also what is the difference between the older K181 and the newer Magnum engines from the 70's and 80's? Is it just the starting and ignition systems? I was considering a newer engine with the gear driven starter and the alternator vs the old starter/generator set up. Besides having a better charging system, I was thinking it would fit a little better because it appears to be slightly more compact without the starter/generator hanging off the back. Thanks for your input. Ron Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sparky-(Admin) 23,249 #2 Posted March 14, 2013 Wheel Horse put out a 1057 and a 1257 so I dont see why not. Someone here should have one and maybe they can tell you if it needs a particular depth oil pan. Mike............. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kelly 1,033 #3 Posted March 14, 2013 (edited) No, The 857 is a short frame tractor, the dash tower is shorter, top to bottom, BUT with the right engine and a bunch of correct parts you can set it up like a 1055 they are a short frame tractor with a 10hp in them it was the only year they did it, the 1045, 1055 and 1075 all used the same set up, but parts to do the swap are getting harder to find, and then you need a small base engine so the correct oil pan will fit, OR you can cut your hood up and deal with the belt alignment issue, if you don't have the correct parts. The newer gear drive starter engines will bolt right in, even the magnums, BUT the starter will be in the way to install the batt, but you could use a ATV batt. or build a box under the seat to hold it. Edited March 14, 2013 by Kelly Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
octfst 378 #4 Posted March 14, 2013 I have a 867 & a buddy has a 1067 there the same as the 857 but have the 2 speed trans. his 1067 is a short frame but the 1045 first big block short frame had a special oil pan. not sure if thats the case here. hoods are the same. as far as the newer 181 the battery box will be in the way of the starter. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kelly 1,033 #5 Posted March 14, 2013 The 1067 is a long frame tractor, measure the hood you will see. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Agage1 83 #6 Posted March 14, 2013 A 18 hp Briggs twin fit nice in my 857. Runs great with tons of power. Just have to relocate the battery Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rustyoldjunk 127 #7 Posted March 15, 2013 Better listen to Kelly,the tractors that the model numbers end in 6 or 7 and have 10 or 12hp engines are long frame tractors with taller dash towers.They also have longer hoods that sit about an inch higher. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites