What engines are being used in RJs and Suburbans?

[Old Ways 30]

I'm looking to get a Middy-Sub to restore/refurb with my Dad and Pap.  I was wondering what new engines (Brand/HP) you guys have seen/used to repower one of these little guys.  I'd like to keep mine original but if a newer, more reliable, option is out there I may be interested.  Pics are appreciated!   

Thanks,

 

-Dane

Edited November 5, 2013 by Mr. Bass-Man

[wallfish 18,221]

Kohler K91. 4 hp

They can still be found plus they are original to the suburbans and late RJs.  

[buckrancher 2,695]

 could be a clinton 1200,,b1290

kohler K90 or K91 they are all original motors for the RJ's the K91 is the easiest to find and get parts for

RJ35's used clinton 1200 or kohler K90

RJ58/59 used Kohler K90 and K91's also clinton B1290 motors

suburbans used Kohler K91's or larson's

 

Brian

Edited November 5, 2013 by buckrancher

[Wheel Horse Kid 105]

I would stay stock if I were you. I don't think you get a new engine for much cheaper (good quality) than doing a rebuild or buying a rebuilt engine (the correct engine). I bought a rebuilt 4hp Kohler K91 for my Suburban 401 and gave $175 for it.

[Old Ways 30]

Thanks guys.  I think I may rubuild one, then as Ive never completely rebuilt an engine...

[AMC RULES 37,210]

If you do pick one up, you won't be disappointed. 

Beware though, they're like Lay's potato chips.    

[Old Ways 30]

If you do pick one up, you won't be disappointed. 

Beware though, they're like Lay's potato chips.    

 

 

I bet!  I really hope to come across one before the white stuff flies, but if I don't I will certainly be looking for one at the big show.

 

[slammer302 2,156]

6.5 HP predator or any 6.5 HP Honda clone will fit but original is always nicer

[victor3ranger 11]

Do they make one of those 6.5hp motors that has electric start?

 

If for some reason I am unable to rebuild the motor on my 551 I would like to keep it electric start.

[slammer302 2,156]

Yes but cost more $ even if you don't get one with electric start these motors start very easy

[VinsRJ 723]

I have repowered RJ's with 6.5 Honda clone engines a number of times without issue. They run strong and fit almost perfectly... you juts a little modification required to the air box and exhaust. No mods are required to the tractor.

[Old Ways 30]

My local thrift shop has had a 6.5 Pred for sale for more than a year now.  About $230...  I'll have to see once I get a machine.

[wallfish 18,221]

It's no wonder they still have it after a year. Probably have for another couple of years since you can buy them for $120

http://www.harborfreight.com/65-hp-212cc-ohv-horizontal-shaft-gas-engine-69730.html

[Old Ways 30]

It's no wonder they still have it after a year. Probably have for another couple of years since you can buy them for $120

http://www.harborfreight.com/65-hp-212cc-ohv-horizontal-shaft-gas-engine-69730.html

 

Holy cow... Yeah, they can keep it, too.

[CasualObserver 3,411]

 

It's no wonder they still have it after a year. Probably have for another couple of years since you can buy them for $120

http://www.harborfreight.com/65-hp-212cc-ohv-horizontal-shaft-gas-engine-69730.html

 

Holy cow... Yeah, they can keep it, too.

 

 

If you get on their mailing list, watch the monthly coupon flyers.  Those little engines are usually on sale for around $100 every two/three months.

 

[VinsRJ 723]

Keep an eye on their sales of the 6.5... I buy mine for $99 or so...

Edited November 6, 2013 by VinsRJ

[CasualObserver 3,411]

Well... since I looked up the engine the two days ago.... guess what showed up in my email yesterday! (anyone who believes that you can go anywhere on the internet without being on somebody's report is kidding themselves!) 

 

A new coupon... good thru November 24, 2013.
 

 
Watch it though... there's a limit of 4 with just one coupon! 
 
Here's a that should let you download and print your own coupon.  If it doesn't work, let me know, I'll post the full size picture of it.
 
http://widgets.harborfreight.com/wswidgets/common/displayCoupon.do?week=4513&campaign=b&page=coupon1.html&cust=60234822020&keycode=1010&single=true&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=4513b&utm_source=1010

[Old Ways 30]

Well... since I looked up the engine the two days ago.... guess what showed up in my email yesterday! (anyone who believes that you can go anywhere on the internet without being on somebody's report is kidding themselves!) 

 

A new coupon... good thru November 24, 2013.

 

 

Watch it though... there's a limit of 4 with just one coupon! 

 

Here's a that should let you download and print your own coupon.  If it doesn't work, let me know, I'll post the full size picture of it.

 

http://widgets.harborfreight.com/wswidgets/common/displayCoupon.do?week=4513&campaign=b&page=coupon1.html&cust=60234822020&keycode=1010&single=true&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=4513b&utm_source=1010

 

Thanks for the link!

[Ken B 3,189]

Don't give up on finding a good running older engine for that nut roaster when you find one. Don't limit yourself to just a Kohler. There are a TON of good old 5hp Briggs motors out there just waiting to be used, which IMO just look better on an old Wheel Horse.

Edited November 10, 2013 by Ken B