What engine for a Terra Jet?

[Klorinth]

Hi guys,
Obviously I am totally new here.
I just went to see a Terra Jet I’m thinking of buying. It’s a VA-6. In very good shape. No real issues except it needs a couple new tires.

It has an old Tecumseh engine in it.

I am looking for help with what I could swap it out for.
What should I look at finding?

[Klorinth]

I also noticed that it didn’t like staring cold.
Are the Tecomseh motors known for that?


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[ARGOJIM]

Tecumsehs require choke often even when warm. A good carb cleaning and adjustment may help but parts are scarce for those carbs so be careful.

[Klorinth]

That is good to know.
I’m used to farm tractors and garden tractors.

[Madtrapper]

They also used to run 400 twin cylinder JLO engines we had two of them. they were good machines but finicky.

[Klorinth]

Are there any newer engines that would fit and provide good power (torque)?
I am looking at this as a possible work machine in the bush. Helping me to clear trails and move logs, and tow a trailer.

The fit is a major concern given how the original engines fit down in the steel tub. It doesn’t look all that easy to modify for a different engine.

[allwheeldrive]

Fit wise I can't say (you can make anything fit if you don't mind some custom brackets.) Terra Jets later came with 4 stroke single cylinder engines. You can swap to a 4 stroke yourself if you want, will need a new CVT clutch that engages at lower RPM. Which will be most any you find today. Engine wise you can go with a 420 Predator from Harbor fart. But expect limited reliability long term (I've killed 2) Or a Nice Honda 390 both about 14hp
If you want a really nice engine a B&S V-twin 16-22 depending on model like vanguards etc are really the cat's meow. Epic torque power, quite, reliable. Or if you want unkillable low speed power and unmatched reliability a 10Hp Yanmar Diesel is a good choice.