so is the machine a 70's model?

If i remember right the power house museum has one and they list it as 80-84. mastercut 24". thats with the mark 3 series 70 motor.
Has that been hit with some spray paint Joe?? The handle should be white and so should the top of the recoil starter.
It looks like the front wheels are offset on it, or is that just a funny camera angle. So it could be a different model to what i think.
To get the motor off the deck you will need a 3 leg puller of some sort to remove the belt pulley off the taper on the crank.
From what i can work out you could put any of the old full crank motors on it. I am waiting for some more specific advice as to what and whynot in the engine section at the moment.
https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=19421#Post19421I have a full crank G4 with electronic ignition and side start, that might work on mine.
Bob.