Let’s talk RJ engines...

[Pullstart 66,813]

So, we picked up two RJ-58’s at the Big Show.  The one from Richard is much more complete.... but for the most part, I should be able to use one to pattern the other, and vice versa.  The major issues with the second, is the lack of most of the “power drive mechanism” (transmission) components and the lack of an engine.  Looking at sickle mower possibilities last night, I realized I have a Clinton A700 engine.  Richard’s came with a K-91.  Other than the difference in power ratings, base bolt pattern and exhaust location, they are very similar.  I was thinking before that we’d rebuild the K-91 as a team then power one with a Predator mill... but I’m not so convinced that’s wise now.  Would the 1-1/2 horse Clinton push an RJ and a kid?

 

 

[bottjernat1 2,194]

id go with the kohler. the clinton would work but you might have to make some holes in the frame to make it fit. but i am an originalist the clinton is a good motor i have a few of them and the 4hp kohler's

[Pullstart 66,813]

11 minutes ago, bottjernat1 said:

id go with the kohler. the clinton would work but you might have to make some holes in the frame to make it fit. but i am an originalist the clinton is a good motor i have a few of them and the 4hp kohler's

 

Just remember too that I need two engines...  The tractors will be restored with as much work as possible done by my girls.... but that doesn’t mean they’ll be 100% original either.  If the small amount of power from the Clinton would push it along, I’d rather keep that vintage rather than go to Harbor Freight.  

[bottjernat1 2,194]

1 hour ago, pullstart said:

 

Just remember too that I need two engines...  The tractors will be restored with as much work as possible done by my girls.... but that doesn’t mean they’ll be 100% original either.  If the small amount of power from the Clinton would push it along, I’d rather keep that vintage rather than go to Harbor Freight.  

i fully agree. stay away from the overseas junk. id go the route u talking about. but look around in your area you might be surprised at what u can find for an original type motor. if you were around me id sell you a couple i have about 3 clintons and kohlors that would work. parts are easy to get for either motor.

Edited July 26, 2019 by bottjernat1

[JAinVA 4,637]

1 hour ago, bottjernat1 said:

 jap junk. 

Normally I have little patience for political correctness but since my mother was Japanese I would like to point out how offensive your comment is to some.I don't want to start any arguments but you may want to remember your posts are on a public forum and will be read by many people who don't look like you.

Edited July 26, 2019 by JAinVA

[bottjernat1 2,194]

18 minutes ago, JAinVA said:

Normally I have little patience for political correctness but since my mother was Japanese I would like to point out how offensive your comment is to some.I don't want to start any arguments but you may want to remember your posts are on a public forum and will be read by many people who don't look like you.

There you go fella i fixed it just for you. i wasn't referring to any ethnic bias i was referring to quality of stuff made overseas!!!(not everything so you don't get offended again) I have folks in my family that are from all races colors, gays. I am a very open minded person. 

[JAinVA 4,637]

Thank you! I have edited my original post to just say Thank you.

[Pullstart 66,813]

Thanks guys for settling that.  I am a fan of Predator engines, but I don’t feel like they should be in these two builds... if I can help it.  I’ll be grinnin’ ear to ear the day that my girls rebuild their own engines and make their tractors fire off for the first time, next time, every time!

[ACman 7,655]

Kevin I  should have everything you need give me a shout... I have been procrastinating (in denial) about selling things off . As far as Harbor Freight engines go the 79cc 3hp I had mocked up looked to be a direct bolt in .

Edited July 26, 2019 by ACman

[WHNJ701 4,165]

i am not a fan of the predators in classic tractors,  I think they look cheap and kill the value. I would track another k91 down they are bullet proof.

 

the one panzer I redid for my son I bought a  new briggs from Northern tool.  they have decent deals on new engines.  however I made custom engine mounts so I didn't have to drill or alter the frame.  I still have the original engine for the tractor which someday go back in it.  easy start and reliability for the kid instead of fighting with a 50 year old briggs and a flo jet.

 

[953 nut 60,068]

19 hours ago, pullstart said:

The tractors will be restored with as much work as possible done by my girls.... but that doesn’t mean they’ll be 100% original either.

    The best decisions in life are those that are made with an end goal in mind.

The long term gain in this case is having a family project with your two daughters. A lot more learning and bonding will take place if the older engines are brought back from the dead rather than just achieving the short term goal of being able to drive a re-powered .   

[clueless 3,248]

Kev, I've got a K-91 that looks to be complete, it spins and has compression. If you willing to pay for the shipping #longway, I'll box it up and send it to you.

[ACman 7,655]

I’ve got one complete k91 with the exhaust port that’s broke in half , one that’s in boxes all disassembled (no idea how complete) and a block that I got from jake . Should be able to get at least one out of the bunch.

Edited July 27, 2019 by ACman