317 ENGINE REMOVAL

[flash]

I need to replace the bendix on my 317s kohler engine How is this done Or if i need to pull the engine how do i go about that also the easiest way
thanks
gordon
[email protected]

 

[Bob]

1.) Disconnect the battery and shut off the gas for safety.

2.) Remove the rear fender deck and drive the pin out of the "U" joint at the hydro to allow the driveshaft to slide off of the hydro. (It can slide off at the front, as well, but from experience I can tell you it's easier to slide it off of the hydro.)

3.) Disconnect the throttle and choke cables, wiring harness, starter wire, and gas line.

4.) Remove the 4 engine mounting bolts that hold the engine to the isolation mounts.

5.) Lift the engine and work the driveshaft off so the engine can be removed.

 

[flash]

Thanks
any idea of how much time it might take to do this job
Does not sound like its a easy fix really
i have worked on cars and semi trucks nearly my whole life and it seems like yard tractors are harder

 

[flash]

the reason i am wanting to remove the engine is to replace the starter i find it hard to believe you have to remove the engine to do this OR is there another way to get the starter off
Any help out there
gordon

 

[Bob]

You HAVE to remove the engine, to at least lift it up to repair or replace the starter.

About a 30-minute job the SECOND TIME YOU DO IT!

 

[Mike M]

It sounds worse then it really is. I recently had to pull the engine out of a 318 twice ! The first time to fix the starter then the second time to replace the key that drives the pick-up coil. I left the driveshaft in and just unbolted it from the flywheel. I didn't have to remove the rear deck.
That Kohler engine in the 317 has a reputation for connecting rod problems. I think because they don't oil well on slopes.

 

[flash]

i have checked with 2 JD dealers and 1 says 5hrs to R/R it the other says a whole day 8 hrs i sure wish we were next door to each other today
i have been told about those problems But that also they cured them with the newer style engine which is what i have that carries better oil pressure
while i have you on here my steering has ALLOT of play in it in the box itself how hard a job is it to fix that and how
thanks again
gordon

 

[Mike M]

I'd have to read a service manual to see what if any adjustments that steering box has. I don't have one either.

I agree with Bob that the removal of that engine is only 30 minuites the 2 nd time around . Slow and carefull you should be able to get it out in an hour or less ? not bad at all to do. When first hearing it had to come out I wasn't too thrilled either, but it wasn't bad at all. Wiring has plugs that just unhook,hood and grille, come off easy. Engine isn't that heavy either. Goes better with a helper to lift it. Especially going back in to help guide things.