Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kawasaki to kohler exchange, old john deere, shaft sizes

Question
Hi, I am seeking to replace a blown Kawasaki liquid cooled v-twin with a great running Kohler air cooled twin of the same h.p. in my old John Deere 285. I have been told that it's possible if the shaft sizes are the same, and then i was told by someone else No Way. Can you provide me with any advice, or opinions before I start this project for no good reason. If I can't do it, then I may as well just have my Kawasaki rebuilt, and save myself some trouble.
thank you,
Chris

Answer
Chris
I will need the model #'s of the equipment and the engine. To answer this question.You may be able to rebuild if thats your only choice.In todays market which is so large when it comes to small engines,it would be better and cheaper to repower the equipment.#1 is you get a new engine,with a full warranty and state of the art and up to date equipment. The other choice is you get a rebuilt engine with a limited warranty and using most of the old parts and who knows what can happen after that bad carb,bad flywheel etc etc.