Repowering a JD 316

[DaveK(IN)]

I have to replace the Onan P series engine only mower. I am looking at the 18 hp BS engine from Small Engine Warehouse. (I can drive there and pick it up-the grass is growing past the window LOL )
The 18 hp seems to have been fine for my needs. Would there be any reason to get the 23 hp engine? Would it overload the hydro?
They say it is a drop in direct replacement. anybody out there done this?
Is the BS engine OK? I sort of thought a Honda would be better as we have had very good service with them in my FD.
I hoped there would be some info in the archives but can"t figure out how to search it.
Thanks in advance for any help or suggestions-Dave K
 

[steve_in_mo]

You could rebuild the Onan but parts are expensive. The 18 hp Briggs might have a little less torque than the Onan, and that's why the 23 hp Briggs is popular. The hydro will hold up just fine. You could look at weekendfreedommachinesDOTcom for write-ups on repower projects using various engines and vendors.
 

[t.r.k.]

If its a 'drop-in' it should be a kit that includes a custom muffler (or custom exhaust pipes), longer drive shaft and custom motor mounts, and all the electrical harness that it takes to convert it over. (Onan didn't have a fuel solenoid. Briggs does. Onan had battery ignition, Briggs is magneto ignition.)

The Onan is larger than most modern engines of similar HP. The other guy is right, the Onan had lots more torque at 18 hp. than some of these EPA engines do.

If you are getting an engine in a OEM crate and that's it, its not a 'drop-in'. Regardless of whether its a Briggs or a Honda. (If you get a Briggs, it better be a Vanguard.)
 

[MrJDMan80]

I have done a number of these swap out. The kit from small engine warehouse IS a drop in kit. Your wire harness will hook up with no issue. Drive shafts will bolt up and the adapter plate for engine mounting is already installed. There is no reason to get the big 23hp. The 18 will treat you just fine. Yes you will loose a little torque, but the increased engine rpm will make up for it. Make sure that you tell them the location of you starter solinoid, either on the starter or under the battery tray, as this make a difference which kit you get. Also, I don"t like th replacement throttle cable they supply. I go to my deere dealer and get a cable and knob for a 777 commecial ztrak mower. You will have to open up the mounting holes, but it is worth it as this is aMUCH better cable. The entire process will take about 3 hrs to do, but when you are done, you will LOVE the way your mower operates
Tim
 

[NOS88]

I believe the warehouse has the Hondas to install also. Worked on a 316 a few weeks ago and had the Honda in it. Believe he got it from Small Engine Warehouse. Nice fit!