thomas 11 #1 Posted March 30, 2013 I have a RJ58. The Kohler runs, but very difficult startig, etc. Has any one replace their engin with like a new Honda or something. ? ( I know - the bad H H word.) But Im into function, not originality. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
formariz 12,045 #2 Posted March 30, 2013 Assuming there are no internal problems it is probably just a matter of tuning up carburater and perhaps a set of points. I have quite a few k91 and 90s and all start on first or second pull. Extremely reliable and durable engines. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
roscoemi 245 #3 Posted March 30, 2013 Give it a tune up, clean the carb and run some seafoam in the gas and spray some in the carb. I just went thru this with a tecky and it is much better. Your hard starting prolly comes from the points being wore and out of whack. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
formariz 12,045 #4 Posted March 30, 2013 if you choose to tune it up another possible improvement is a Nova or a Mega-Fire transistorized ignition module. It does away with the points and condenser and automatically sets timing. Very reliable and easy to install. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VinsRJ 723 #5 Posted March 30, 2013 If the above suggestions not work for you... to answer your question, yes, I have put a number of "Blue Clone" Honda engines from Harbor Frieght on RJ/Suburbans with great success. You will have to remove the mounted fuel tank, swap to a "kart" style air filter and re-plum the exhaust... nothing major IMO. You can use the original RJ engine pulley, belt gurad and size drive belt on a clone also. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Don1977 605 #6 Posted March 30, 2013 I have a K-91 that's hard to start. It smokes when running and needs new rings doesn't have enough compression to fire off. After cranking it 10 time or so it will start. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
chrisd200(inactive) 56 #7 Posted March 30, 2013 UGHHHHHH, a Chinese Honda clone on a Wheel Horse. Not gonna lie, I have considered it but can't bring myself to do it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wallfish 18,215 #8 Posted March 31, 2013 I'll take that junky old kohler off your hands if you don't want it! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
VinsRJ 723 #9 Posted March 31, 2013 UGHHHHHH, a Chinese Honda clone on a Wheel Horse. Not gonna lie, I have considered it but can't bring myself to do it. I understand where you are coming from, but if you are putting together a RJ/Suburban on a buget or want to have a worker 1) re-doing a little Kohler costs a fair amount of money no-days and 2) as a worker why would you want to take a chance in chucking a rod in an original motor tractor? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
