Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): engie swap, bolt holes, old john deere

Question
I have a old john deere C 210 H serial # 097872M with a kohler K241AQS 46785 d serial # 9356709 engine in it. it keeps breaking off the splash paddle off the rod. my question is there a bolt in replacement engine, such as a honda or something, that will work ? thanks for any help.

Answer
It will be challenging to find a direct  bolt on, sort of speaking.  You can easily bolt on a different engine as the engine mounting bolt holes are pretty standard.

However, you have have to tap in and wire the new engine.  The thottle control may require some updating as well but it is possible.

The trouble with some of the JD is that Kohler made some very specific crankshafts for JD products.  Do you have any of the crankshaft specifications?

Below is a link for a replacement engine:

http://www.smallenginewarehouse.com/RepowerItems.asp?Brand=John%20Deere&Model=21...

The new engine from the website is pretty expensive.  

Another option is to replace the engine short block.  Cheaper but you still have all old external parts.  This is usually not a problem as long as your current carburetor is in decetn shape.

Let me know if this helps.

Eric