Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): need new engjne, briggs stratton, drive pulley

Question
i have a 1980 john deere 68 riding mower. after 29 years the engine has seen it's last mow. i've searched john deere and briggs & sratton sites with no luck. engine: briggs & stratton 8hp - model 191707 - type 5642-01 - code 79100911. someone out there, hopefully, has to have one!? please help my buddy run again. thanks for your time - mark

Answer
You don't need to replace the engine with the exact same kind. Any one-cylinder, vertical-shaft Briggs & Stratton Intek engine should bolt right up. You should be able to remove the drive pulley off the old engine and place it on the new one. Use a pulley-remover to take the pulley off, and use a rubber mallet to put the pulley on the new motor. eBay should be able to supply the new engine. I woulds look on craigslist, as well.