Cadet 73 bogging problem

[cdinkels]

I just received a cub cadet 73 from my grandfather that is bogging the engine down when I engage the blades. All the pulleys move freely and the belt can be moved by hand at the front of the engine. I had the deck off and checked that the pulleys were not binding and that the blades were free. The compression is around 70 lbs but I dont know what it should be on this engine. It is a model K161 and serial # 1003658. Any thoughts on where to look next will sure be appreciated. Thanks, Chuck

 

[B2400]

I'm surprised that the mower will even start! I think your going to need around 100lbs of compression to make it work, but I'm not too familiar with the requirements of a flathead motor. Squirt some oil ( motor oil 30wt ) in the plug hole and then check compression. If it comes up significantly, your in need of some piston rings. If it comes to that I don't think the small Kohlers are too expensive to rebuild.