Technical Articles

Engine Science: Measuring Your Engine’s Cylinder BoreBy Norman NgSo you have decided to finally pull apart the engine on your old Garden Tractor and are planning to rebuild as a winter project.Before you order parts or contact a machine shop make sure you measure your engine components carefully and determine the correct size.In this article I will explain how to measure your engine’s cylinder bore with a micrometer and a telescoping bore gauge.The Telescoping Bore Gauge:The telescopin …

Engine Science: The Governor SystemThe governor system in your engine is crucial to keeping your engine running while you enjoy your garden tractor. It’s like cruise control for your engine’s RPMs (rotations per minute). It keeps your machine working regardless if you go uphill, go downhill, hit a thick patch of grass, or pull a heavy load. There are three types of governor systems used in outdoor power equipment: mechanical, air vane, and electronic. However, for this article, we are …

Best Vintage Garden Tractor for Front End LoaderMy favorite implement for a vintage garden tractor is the front end loader. To those not familiar with vintage garden tractors, a front end loader may seem more like a toy rather than a tool. The truth is vintage garden tractors are fantastic platforms for small front end loaders. This combination makes for a very capable, compact and inexpensive machine to help you manage your property chores. With a properly set up front end loader, your garden …

Engine Science: Repairing Your Tractor’s Charging SystemYour tractor requires electricity to run and function. Electricity creates the spark for your ignition, powers your lights, lifts your attachments, turns on your PTO, and runs any other accessories you decide to add. This article will explain the workings of a Stator Charging System and how to diagnose and repair any issues you encounter. Your tractor’s charging system consists of the following components: -Stator Winding-Flywhee …

Here is a basic wiring diagram showing how to wire a vintage small engine that uses a Magneto Ignition System with Points for the timing.Samples of engines like this include the Kohler K141, K161, K181, and some K241 engines.