Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 7hp kohler intake valve, overhead valve engines, spark plug wire


Question
I have an old kohler 7hp horizontal shaft engine from a Troy-bolt tiller.  I do not know the year or the model number because it is worn. anyway, after taking it apart, I found out that the intake valve was frozen, I couldn't even open it myself, I know that the camshaft I believe it is called is broke due to the fact that there is some clearance between the valve and rod seat I guess you would call it.  it doesn't try to push the valve up.  the exhast valve appears to be from another engine as well, as it allows no clearance and doesn't even appear to seat properly, I'm actually just finding engines to tinker with on spare time, this one caught my attention though.  I was curious as to what all I would have to do to be able to fix it, if it would even be slightly possible for someone wig pretty big hands.  also would be curious what I would need to replace it. thanks.

Answer
Hello Justin:

>>Always Remove the Spark Plug Wire/s from the Spark Plug/s before Working on Any Small Engine unless the Plug/s must be Connected to the Coil/s for Diagnostic Reasons.
>>You need to Soak the Valve Stems with Penetrating Oil where the Valve Stems go through the Valve Guides so the Valves can be Removed without Damaging the Valve Guides.
>>Until you have the Valves Moving Freely in the Valve Guides, you cannot know if these are the Incorrect Valves for this Engine.
>>Once you have the Valves Freely Moving through the Valve Guides, then Let me Know and we can Continue with the Diagnostics to get the Engine Running.
>>Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug or the Muffler. Many horizontal shaft, overhead valve engines have these numbers stamped into the OHV rocker cover. However, on certain overhead valve powered generators, the equipment manufacturer installs a decorative chrome rocker cover OVER the Briggs cover. If your engine has a decorative cover, it may be necessary to remove it in order to locate the Model, Type, and Code. If this is a Briggs and Stratton  Engine, then you can Also Use this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/BS_modeltypecode.pdf for Assistance in Locating the Model, Type and Code Numbers of a Briggs and Stratton Engine.
>>Generally the identification tag is on a part of the unit that, even after years of use, rarely needs replacement. For most of MTD (includes Troy Bilt) power equipment, these tags are approximately 2" by 3" in size. They also have the MTD Products name, address and customer service phone number listed across the bottom. For hand held product, the tag is normally white and approximately 1" by 1/2" in size. Hand held i.d. tags are normally on an aluminum portion of the engine, somewhat set into the unit to protect the label from wear. (A bar code will also be on this tag.) Riding mower tags are located on the underside of the seat. For walk behind mowers this tag is found either on the deck or on the rear door of rear discharge units. Tiller model and serial tags are generally on the tine housing. **The model and serial tags for two-stage snow throwers are located on the bottom of the main gear housing which is often called the belly pan, while single stage snow thrower tags are next to the key and primer. For other products like log splitters, chipper shredders and edgers, tags can be found on the frame or main housing.**
>>If you are wanting to Replace the Engine, then Any 7Hp to 10HP Engine with the Same Crankshaft Diameter, Key-way, Mounting Bolt Pattern and Crankshaft Length can Replace this Engine.
You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Unit at this Site Addy, http://www.buymtdonline.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Home_TroyBilt_10101_19502_... and Select Use Our Detailed Parts Finder. Then Enter the Model Numbers.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John