<font size="+2">FRANK!!!!!!
</font> (and Kraig for that matter)
I don't want to start something, er, well maybe I do. I don't believe that Autolite 216 Sparkplug should be used in the 7hp or 8hp Kohler (like your 73). It should be a Champion J8C. I know Charlie's site calls out the 216 as a replacement for the J8C and H10C but he does say for 10-16hp engines (he doesn't mention 7 or 8hp).
And Frank - you stated the following in a message:
"tractor from parts" should be an inspiration to the rest of us! (Sorry, Hydro Harry). Your phrase "It all fit together nicely" is one to remember
What's the story with this??? Making a tractor from other tractor parts is fine with me. It still works for my tag line. The unused parts will just keep resting. Everyone on this site has gotta work hard to keep these units out of the scrap yards. I did my job and found my 169 there.
R.E. Woods - every once and awhile you do see a K341 block or even a full engine from a 169 or 1650 come up on the usual suspect web sites. The "Puller" guys especially like the this block if it has 13 cooling fins since the cylinder has enough meat to bore it to nearly 4". The 12 fin version can't make that much. Most but not all of the 169s got a 13 fin. Some of the early 1650s got a 13 fin. With the number of 1650 production units I have to think you could find a good K341 block.
Don't be fooled by the engine shroud tag on the 1650 which calls out the Kohler Model K341AQS. You can definitely use this block in your 169 but you'll have to use your original flywheel, shroud, S/G, PTO and other stuff. Blocks from other brand tractors generally won't work, or you'll have to cut ears off the base, etc. Let us know what you decide to do.
Wayne - I've had my 169 running a few times now since I had Dave C remove the balance gears and add the David Kirk balance plate. Just run enough to do the head torque before I realized my torque wrench stopped clicking - so I still need to do that. Then I need to finish up the timing - my light shows it's real close but not exact yet. Then I have to finish up the throttle cable adjustment and carb settings for idle and high speed. AND THEN there is the issue with all the paint I scratched up doing all this stuff. I just ain't as good as I used to be about doing this stuff.
I also just realized this Forum is gonna be 20 YEARS OLD next year. I wonder if Charlie is throwing some type of party?????