Priority1 Posted May 1, 2016 Share Posted May 1, 2016 We re-powered a 1979 Bolens Large Frame HT23 Tractor with a B&S Vanguard 23HP Engine. A lot of issues to deal with including Driveshaft, Key switch, Engine height and mounts, Wiring, Exhaust, PTO, and a few other minor issues. The machine also got new PTO bearings and belts. This machine has a two speed Hydro and Hydraulics. The machine is very heavy but lost about 100#s with the engine swap. The tractor required an engine with two drive shafts. The machine is running fine. It needs 10hrs of break-in and I'll give it two of them later today. as I mow my lawn for the first time. We also rebuilt the gearbox on the mower deck. A good friend Joe A helped me a lot with this project. Joe owns 3 Large Frame Bolens Tractors with original engines still intact. This is how you keep a couple of old guys off the streets and out of trouble. Priority1 will now be PRIORITY1. I hope to do a shakedown in a couple of weeks. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
N II Deep Posted May 1, 2016 Share Posted May 1, 2016 those are fun projects, looks good Frank and will keep giving you years of service. I re-powered a 79' Gravely back in 2001 - had the same things to deal with. but when it's done you have a product that will out last the big box store sheet-metal toy tractors. I still use mine, year around as I have the mower deck, snowblower, tiller, and power broom. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dr Hook Posted May 1, 2016 Share Posted May 1, 2016 Now you just have to find a race for it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nailer Posted May 2, 2016 Share Posted May 2, 2016 I re powered my 317 JD with a Brigs 20 hp. Now I considering doing the sam with the 318 JD. Enjoy. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Priority1 Posted May 2, 2016 Author Share Posted May 2, 2016 The older machines are worth re-powering. I think the newer engines are more compatible with the fuel that is available today. The older machines are definitely beefier than the new ones. I checked into getting a re-power kit but the $$ scared me away. Even with the kit there is no guarantee that some additional fitting will not be required. I just bought the surplus engine and went for it. I may rebuild my 48" two stage snowblower this Fall if I feel up to it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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