1988 520HC engine swap question

[stevebo-(Moderator) 8,601]

I have a 1988 520HC that I purchased without the motor. The PO bought it for the motor only.... I just finished my restoration and have a 16hp Onan mounted in the tractor however the wiring is a bit different. I assum that motor will run fine as I purchased it from another CT member here on RS however if for some reason it is not a runner, is it possible to out a Kohler single in this machine without modification other than changing the drive belt etc...?

If anyone has an extra 20hp wiring harness they want to part with please let me know. Any advise would be great. Thanks- Steve Bo

[htopjimmy26 3]

I've often dreamed of putting a 22-24hp Kohler vtwin in one of them. That would cut the grass is short order and I've seen pics on here of someone else doing it. Good luck :omg:

[zieg72 209]

I have a 1988 520HC that I purchased without the motor. The PO bought it for the motor only.... I just finished my restoration and have a 16hp Onan mounted in the tractor however the wiring is a bit different. I assum that motor will run fine as I purchased it from another CT member here on RS however if for some reason it is not a runner, is it possible to out a Kohler single in this machine without modification other than changing the drive belt etc...?

If anyone has an extra 20hp wiring harness they want to part with please let me know. Any advise would be great. Thanks- Steve Bo

I am in the middle of putting a 16 hp single from a C165-8 on my 520H. Engine bolted up great, just have to figure the wiring and get a smaller belt. You have to use the C165 belt cover and modify the hood bracing for the muffler but all is well so far.

[kpinnc 16,233]

Steve, you can bolt most any engine in there. You may loose some of the dash functions, depending on what you use, but most any larger engine will fit.

At the most, you may need to build an adapter plate to raise the PTO shaft to the proper height (about 6 and a half inches) above the tractor frame.

Here is mine, with a Briggs Vanguard:

My Onan P220 threw a rod, so it's in a box in the shop. It will probably get repaired one day, but for now this tractor runs great like it is!

Good luck!

Kevin