Hi grumpy, this is why I asked for pics to be posted in my first post...to ascertain which clamping method is used by both machines....I have just posted in another thread how to remove the engine simply, step by step, and can re-post that here once we know the shaft diameters.
Regarding the swap, I feel that he wants to get the 17" Model 45 machine up to speed, and he may be able to source another serviceable 80102 for the Diplomat at another time. Providing the engine mounting point on the twin rails is the same for both the Tecumseh and the Briggs, even if the shaft diameters are different, all he would need to purchase, is a new inner clutch half.
