Replacing a B&S Vanguard engine on lawn/garden tractor

[Carl in CT]

Not sure but my 23hp Vanguard engine might be blown. I should know more when the shop gets a chance to look at it but it has little to no compression. I want to explore options now even though I am holding out hope it isn't actually blown. The mechanic who has it now isn't a fan of replacing engines with anything except the exact same model. Sure, that's a lot easier but this is a $1,400 engine and I'd like to explore cheaper options. It is a 4 or 5 year old Briggs Vanguard 23hp engine. The numbers are as follows:

Engine model: 386777
Type: 0111-G1
Code: 08012611
Model # 386777-0111
23.0 HP
Commercial power
Vertical Crankshaft
Vanguard Series
OVERHEAD VALVE DESIGN (O.H.V.) design
"V" Twin Cylinder
Cast Iron Sleeve
12 Volt Electric Start
16 Amp Alternator
1 Dia. x 3-5/32 Crankshaft. PLEASE make sure you compare your engine crankshaft size with this Crankshaft size or call us.
Full 1/4" keyway
Crankshaft is drilled and tapped ready for bolt 7/16-20
Equipped for Remote
Has Oil Filter
Has Oil Cooler
Has Fuel Pump

I realize that things like mufflers and wiring harnesses will be different and could present a challenge but if I can find an engine (new or used) with the same crankshaft size/specs how hard is it really to make a different engine work?

 

[Sawyer Rob]

My Vanguards have been very good engines... I like them and would buy another...

IF, I was you, I'd rebuild what you have or replace it with another Vanguard.

SR

 

[Barry 1]

Smallenginewarehouse.com has 2 models of the 386777 with 1" cranks for $995 plus shipping(and every thing else on your list)

 

[3930dave]

On my budget, I'd consider a Predator.

22 HP (78cc) V-Twin Vertical Shaft Gas Engine EPA

Can't swear it's a total drop-in for what you need, but I'd find a way to make it work.... sometimes that's less work than convincing a mechanic to install something he doesn't want to....

Not that I'm anti-Briggs (all the sizeable air-cooled motors I own are Briggs) but unless that was commercial-use/high hours, I'd wonder why the original motor was done that quickly....

Rgds, D.

(Edit - first thing I'd check is rotation direction)

 

[buckeyefarmer]

Wish they had a 13hp vertical.