I have a 86 Walker mower serial# 8617554 with an 11hp Briggs (model 254427 Type 0124-01 Code 86041711) I purchased this new in 86. The engine is starting to burn oil, smoke etc. I really would like to replace the motor with a new longblock but I'm told they do not make a direct bolt in anymore. The people at walker tell me they have a conversion kit from the briggs to a 13hp Kawi (walker part # 5011-6) but you can only buy that motor from them due to some modifications they make to the motor. Please help!!! anyone else ever deal with this problem?

I'm so torn because it is still in really good shape..

The walker conversion kit is almost $2300

 

Have you thought about rebuilding the 11 on it? There should be an abundance of 12horse briggs engines around, and you should be able to get a good deal on a used one. The 12 has the same bolt pattern as the 11, and nearly the same dimensions. It should fit right in. Make sure the crankshaft size is the same (probably standard size).

 

If you had the room, you could throw a twin apposed on there like I did with my 12hp single briggs powered rider..., course the hood didn't agree, I had to make it agree.

 

If this job were in my shop, I'm sure I could get a new engine to fit up. Probably either an 11 or 13 horse Vanguard. Sure it may take some mods, but nothing major. If, on the other hand, you don't want to take that route, there is a .020" oversize piston and rings available as well as a .020" undersize connecting rod still available for this engine. Briggs part numbers 499292, piston/rings and 490469, rod.