Grassman17
New member
Does anyone know where I can get a used Kohler Courage 18 engine? My crank case cracked. Any suggesstions.
Kohler Courage 18
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CincyFlyer
Veteran Member
You could get a similar import engine (not that many of the USA-brands aren't really imports!) or even a genuine new Kohler for $600. Used, you'll have to check eBay, but if the device this powers is a solid article you are taking chances. Is the crankcase not repairable, or available as a replacement part?
frugalangler
Gold Member
Where is it cracked? I've repaired cracked cases numerous times with either heli-arc (old school) or even an epoxy patch. If not structural, find someone w/ a Henrob or Cobra DSC2000 O/A setup that knows how to use it and you'd be surprised what can be done.
OP
Grassman17
New member
crazyal
Super Member
It's a known flaw with the Courage engines. There are videos on u-tube with the engine running and the crack opening and closing. Welding it would just buy you a short bit of time before it likely cracks again. Too bad you weren't closer I have a 19hp that runs great in a Wheel Horse Super Bronco that I haven't used since replacing it this year with a Deere x500. I have heard the new blocks are made from thicker metal to help resist cracking but I think I would replace it with a different brand vs repair it. I think you have to ask yourself if it's worth doing. If you think it is I think you can find a new engine for around $500 or maybe a used riding mower for $300 with an engine you could use. In the case of my Wheel Horse it runs great and there's nothing wrong with the mower but it wasn't built for longevity and after 10 years lots of things are showing wear. There are some noisy bearings and the mower deck is starting to rust. The transmission works OK but the brakes are very weak and my yard is hilly was the final straw.
IH3444
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If you can re-power it. 22 HP (7 8cc) V-Twin Vertical Shaft Gas Engine EPA
Texasmark
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Yea, answered by a guy that had the same thing happen with a 20 hp Courage. Go to ebay and get yourself a new BS V twin for about $600, some with free shipping and then find a muffler to fit the twin....mine was there too, used, but they are rugged and used is ok. Then sit back and enjoy some real power. I was so happy with that purchase I chunked a 17.5 Command for a BS 18 V twin.
The bolt pattern on both engines is a 10" diameter circle so either fits the pattern with no drilling. The cowl (hood) fits over either engine. The shaft is the same diameter and length. The engine pulley pair comes off with a bolt from the bottom....sloppy fit so it comes off easily (no prying necessary) with a woodruff key for alignment. Length being the same the same belts and all fit right up.
The electrical and fuel connections are in the same place. Only difference is the throttle and choke cables have to be longer to reach around in front of the engine rather than on the left side as is with the single cyl. I bought a new JD black and orange control with cut to length cables that I mounted on the plastic, left side of my mower just below where the OEM was located for $25. Works great. I couldn't find a cheap OEM for my mower to fit a BS V twin but I'm happy with what I have.
Go for it.