18hp Kohler in a max II

[bierbower37]

I just ran across a near new 18hp kohler twin for a very nice price. Was just wondering if it will fit on my mounts and can I use my clutch off my 14hp briggs. The new engine is a 1 1/8 inch...if need be do they make a clutch to fit that size???

Machine is a 1998 max II...thanks for any help.

[jpswift1]

The clutch on the Briggs will be 1" so it won't fit the Kohler unfortunately. Also, the engine mount holes will be placed a little differently.

[bierbower37]

That ruins my day...guess I'll continue my quest to rid my max of its wimpy 14hp engine.

[jpswift1]

Maybe you could check with a machine shop and they could bore your 1" clutch out to 1 1/8". It would be worth a shot. Just make sure you measure the Kohler shaft before you have the clutch bored out.

[AussieMax]

Changing the engine mountings shouldn't be that hard. The Kohler engine would be worth the time and effort.

[jpswift1]

Changing the engine mountings shouldn't be that hard. The Kohler engine would be worth the time and effort.

Exactly. You just might have to drill 4 new mounting holes in your existing engine mounts. If you can get the clutch thing figured out, you'll be in great shape.

[Roger S]

I would put a briggs engine in it. Everything off the 14 will bolt onto a 20hp or less. Otherwise, you have the expense and work of engine mounting, which has to be correct, not just a guess. The cost of a clutch, and exhaust system. If the kohler is that great of a deal, buy and re sell it for profit.