Gator Locked Up

[Harley Eaves]

I bragged to this forum a few weeks ago about my 4x2 gator. Well it put me down Sat while riding my 3 yr old Grandson. The motor locked up. All I can figure is that My older Grandson had been mud riding and possibly gotten mud in the breather pipe and it caused it to pump the oil out. I have never had to add oil in the 15 years I have had it. Question should I try to rebuild the engine or get a new one? If a new one should I go with a short block or a totally new engine? A new gator like the one I have would run about $8000.00 Thanks Harley

 

[Larry806]

My son & I just got done changing the motor in my gator . I talked to 3 different JD dealer's NONE recommended fixing or replacing with another Kawasaki .
Short block from JD -2400.00
Parts to rebuild my motor 1590.00 ( plus machine work )
New Honda from Small Engine Warehouse 1600.00
The direction's that come with the Honda are somewhat lacking , but not a bad job .

 

[Machinery-Man]

Even, the JD stuff want take much abuse. Maybe you should tear it down with your Grandson...get some grease on his hands and let him see the cost of racing and or abuse...might be a good lesson to pass onto him....back in my day would have been some kick a.......

 

[ALAND]

I agree with Larry. Small engine warehouse has a complete conversion kit. Honda motor, air cooled more horsepower. Simple to install. Did one last winter on a Gator 6x4 with 2500hrs. No problems yet. Gets used everyday.

 

[Harley Eaves]

Thanks for the input. I found one at The Green Dealer that is suppose to be complete, just lift the old one out and set the new one in for a lot less than JD. I pray that it is what the young man told me on the phone. I had never heard of this Co, but appears they carried a lot of JD parts. Againg I appreciate your suggestions. Harley