Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Repower, ariens snowblower, honda motor

Question
John ,
      Thanks in advance for your time. I have a Ariens snowblower that is close to 40 yrs old and all original. The motor is a Brigggs and Straton 7.5 hp and is just a little tired. I would like to repower it with new Honda motor if possible. My reasons for this are the machines mechanicals are perfect and basically compared to the new stuff the thing is overbuilt and will probably be around for the rest of my life. My question is in searching for the correct base plate configuration, I found that the Hp rating is  a little higher or lower but not the existing 7.5, being that the auger and drive are belt driven does this protect me from over working the mechanisms and breaking the unit because I overpowered it. How do you think I should go about it?

Answer
 Hello Tom:

 As Long as you Don't Over Power the Blower too Much. The Belts will Slip and Help in Preventing Damage to the Blower Itself. With a 7.5hp Engine, you can Safely go to 10.0hp and Not have any Worries. I have Done this on Several Tillers and have had Better than Expected Results. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John