QuestionQUESTION: hi Mr. Jones --
I recently acquired an old (but beautifully maintained) Sears Craftsman Eager-1 rear-bagger push mower (Model 131.907741)
Only challenge: no deadman switch or blade brake.
I could live without 'em, but would feel much more comfortable with the deadman switch...
Any retrofit kits available?
Best
- K (yes, my email is really what it shows)
ANSWER: I believe you have a Tecumseh engine on your mower...at least that is what it looks like in the parts diagram.
If you look on the engine there should be an engine model, spec, and serial number stamped in the metel engine shroud. The engine model information may be located near the spark plug.
Send me the engine information so I can look up the engine parts diagram to see if a kit is available. My initial guess is no kits are available but if the engine has the mounting screw locations cast in the block you may be albe to bolt on flywheel brake and switch assembly. You would also need a brake bale handle for the upper portion of your mower handle and a cable.
How to you currently shut-off the engine?
Eric
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: hi Eric --
Many thanks. I hold out a forlorn hope...
Engine details: Stamped into the shroud is 143-3140220 SER 1238B -- no other markings anywhere (and I looked everywhere but under the gas tank, wasn't up for unbolting that)
How turn off: there's a switch on the side of the engine that seems to have three positions -- high (used to start), low, and off. Is a choke, maybe? In addition, on the other side of the mower is a "key" slot -- apparently one could once lock the engine "to prevent unauthorized use". (!)
Thoughts?
thx
-K
ANSWER: 143.314022 is a Tecumseh ECV100-145185E
The link below shows a picture of the common flywheel brake set up (page 62):
http://www.cpdonline.com/692509.pdf
Looking at the parts diagram the brake part is listed so I'm betting it can be bolted to your engine. I checked a couple of sites and they show the part (221) but there is no part number.
I'd check a small engine shop near your location and find a used engine/mower. You can probalby talk them in to selling the whole thing for $20.00 and you would have all the mounting screws as well as the part you need. Another option is to check craigs list or post an add.
One thing you will need is a flywheel remover tool. You can use a general puller if the flywheel has three holes drilled in the top of it. You will need to tap the holes, 1/4" 20 TPI national course, to use a general puller. If the flywheel is not drilled then you need a flywheel knocker tool. The pdf link has the part number for the tools to remove the flywheel.
It's a lot of work to convert the mower but it may be worth it if you like to tinker and want the added safety.
Let me know if the links above help.
Eric
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Superb, and very helpful! Thanks.
Thoughts on the deadman switch retrofit? Any pointers to a kit or such?
-K
AnswerThe switch is actually mounted on the brake assembly. If you order new parts you may have to order the switch seperate. If you find a donor engine the switch will be mounted to the brake arm. All you have to do is connect the old wire that is currently connected to the shut-off switch to the switch on the brake arm.
Eric
