Listed 1811; rpm/governor issues

[Eric Detweiler]

Looked at an 1811 to buy today. It was in good condition overall. Engine had 1463 hrs. 50 in. deck. Would of purchased except the throttle was way out of sorts. 1/4 inch of movement up from lowest idle position, had engine at an rpm ready to engage PTO. 1/2 inch up from lowest position had engine racing like I've rarely experienced. Was afraid to go to full throttle with owner standing there, expecting engine to blow. Governor issues I believe. Owner purchased 7 years ago and always just mowed with it on 1/4 throttle, he said. I'm not experienced at trouble shooting these issues, any advice would be appreciated. Could it be an easy fix/carb adjustment? Is it an internal engine issue possibly. Nice tractor, otherwise. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[mgonitzke]

The governor gear has probably failed. If the oil filler tube and cap are removed it, should be visible. If it's not there, it's probably in pieces in the bottom of the oil pan.

 

[1811Cub]

Most likely the governor gear has fallen apart or out. To fix, the entire engine must be torn down completely to get to it. More time and cost efficient to find a good engine to replace and part the other one out.

 

[Eric Detweiler]

Seller wants $400 as is. Whats average price on a used M18S engine. Any idea. Thanks

 

[1811Cub]

I commonly see the horizontal shaft Kohlers $400-$800

 

[Eric Detweiler]

One other aspect when adjusting the throttle, was the rpm fluctuation. Rpms worked with a slight/noticeable delay of increasing or decreasing a few seconds before evening out to the constant speed indicated by the new position of throttle lever. Something to consider. I'm really not considering tearing into a internal rebuild of this engine if purchased; replacement or external fix, yes. Appreciating all coments!

 

[sblunier]

Gasket set and a new governor gear.....two night project, one to tear down/clean up, one to reassemble. Then go play.......

M18s aren't that bad yo work on.