Hello John,
Thank you for the kind words. I wanted something that was going to last, and once I realised the level of corrosion I decided to "do it properly". It was initially just going to be put back into tip top mechanical condition.
The GX100 is a pearler. Dead quiet at idle, not to bad at full noise. I've been running it at about 75% throttle, but the thing will chug along at idle if for some reason you want it to. The overhang is minimal, you'd just as likely scrape the bolts down the right hand side as you would the starter housing. If you're keen I can measure it for you.
Ideally I would have liked the GX120 as it's a bit cheaper. However, it just looks too big on the 14", as do the Briggs offerings and I didn't want to lose my 5/8 steel clutch half. It may be vain, but enjoy a bit of "balance" to the look of the mower, especially if I'm the one who has to live with it. If the tank was a bit lower profile it would be perfect in my eyes...! It also would have robbed me of handle bar adjustment. Don't think that's a problem with the newer style, wider bars.
Kawasaki FJ100 was also getting a look, but the shaft height is different. Lots of motor though for ~$400 and the height problem can be overcome.
Good luck with your 17". I swear those old Briggs didn't help the twins longevity. Mine had an engine change at some point, (engine build is 1988) an 82232 was fitted when I got it. Nothing "wrong" with it but it's a thumper alright. Thankfully it was a solid. Hopefully you can get it back into service and doing what it does best. Keep us in the loop.
Last edited by Mystyler; 24/07/19 02:06 AM.
