Cheap engine, cheap parts

[collij]

I've been having a hard time trying to get my MaxIV with an OH160 running. Someone was nice enough to sell me an ignition coil (I haven't received it yet, it's probably stuck in customs, so I hope that's all that is wrong), but the difficulty in finding parts, and the their cost has me discouraged.

What is the cheapest, still in production (easy to get parts), compatible engine for a 1970's MaxIV? Can you get by with less than 16hp?

[kahn]

Hummmmm?

Don't be discouraged. With a little modification, you can use a very wide variety of engines. Where are you located at?

[collij]

location

Thanks. I'm located in Dutchess County, NY

[6X6]

Hi collij, you're right above me, I am in Putnam Myself. Where in Dutchess are you? Of course I'm right on the Westchester line. Mogman has a Max 4 and we just put a 22hp Kawi in it as the Briggs 16hp just lacked a little oommph. Fitting a new motor really is just wiring and drilling new holes (slots) in the table for the motor mounts (Unless they happen to line up) Briggs can be found cheap and are readily available. Kawasaki motors are strong and the Liquid cooled versions are all self contained so you're not messing with radiator mounting.

[collij]

I'm just west of Poughkeepsie (a few miles)

Would you be willing to sell the B&S to a cash poor Max fan (my wife controls all the money, and she's currently not too happy with me purchasing a non-working 6x6)? :-)

[6X6]

Hi: It's not mine, it's a friends. I will ask him this evening. Once you get up and running hopefully we can meet up somewhere local.
And I think all AATV owners are Cash Poor, if not before, then shortly after owning one (or more) machines

[spits]

i am not familiar with the Max but do know transplanting a different engine in any piece of equipment is a time consuming and at times frustrating. Unless you can bolt it in,very likely new mounting plates may need to be made unless new holes can be drilled, will your exhaust be compatable and if not do you have access to equipment to build one or modifiy yours? Will the clutch you have fit the new engine or is that going to be replaced etc etc. I don't want to discourge you in the attempt, just some things to think about. As far as the Tech engine goes I personally believe they were not too bad an engine, but as you say, parts are hard to get.These engines do seem to be a bit underpowered...OK a lot underpowered but the down size to the bigger power is the chance of more part breakage. If you do change engines and the ign part arrives, maybe the guy you got it from would understand and take it back. if you do go with a different engine make sure you have the right belt BEFORE you start. Trust me on that one. In any event take your time, and if you can hide it under a tarp for a while maybe your wife will forget you have it.