OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Other Walk-Behind Rotary Mowers Engines: Strip down or not?

G'day all,

This site is really interesting! I joined because i wanted to do up my only mower (a Rover Super Four 53)to pick up some tips on parts and repairs.To my surpise i really didn't know that there would be such a high level of interest in restoring mowers and similar equipment!It is great looking at the pictures and the obvious effort and high workmanship you put into these resto's.
Made me think about another one perhaps? Although there is so much water on my yard at the moment i don't when i'll get to use a mower again.
Anyway back to my question.
I'm no expert but i can't see or hear any evidence to suggest that the engine is suffering any problems or excessive wear. From the history i know of this mower it probably wouldn't have seen 1/4 of the work that a mower of this age would have under normal usage conditions. I have not had one problem with it in the last 5 years (approx 100hrs work at my estimate)
So as this is supposed to be a restoration, should i strip and rebuild anyway, freshen up (eg rings and a de-coke) or don't fix what ain't broke. What do you seasoned enthusiasts do?

Cheers,
Stu. (Toot)

If the engine starts easily, runs without too much smoke and isnt leaking oil I would leave it well alone apart from changing the oil and cleaning/replacing the air filter.

Thank you Joe i think i will take your advice.It starts first pull, doesn't blow smoke and only has a minor oil weep from the valve cover.
Cheers,

toot,

I would be replacing the seal on the valve cover before using it to much. The price of the gasket is minor to the cost of a major repair in the future.

Note that we will be uploading a video showing reasons why damages are caused and this should happen within the next week.