1541 engine replacement

This is just like the old coffee shop, which was like the old coffee shop down the street. Pull up a chair, sit down and enjoy some good discussions. Please, no political, religious or racial posts.
Post Reply
154111
Posts: 6
Joined: Wed Oct 11, 2017 9:34 pm
First and Last Name: David Duran
Location: vinton texas

1541 engine replacement

Post by 154111 »

Hello everyone,
Has anyone ever replaced an engine in a 1541 with any other motor besides the original magnum?
I can't seem to find any info on either a used engine to buy or a replacement option for a 1541.
My engine has a hole in the case... the tractor itself is in above average condition so it's a keeper.
Any help is greatly appreciated.

User avatar
SWilliams
Posts: 805
Joined: Mon Sep 06, 2010 7:14 pm
First and Last Name: Steve Williams
Location: Fort Plain NY (Upstate NY near Cooperstown)

Re: 1541 engine replacement

Post by SWilliams »

There are a lot of different repower options for those tractors. The only things you need to really watch for is the shaft size and it's height above the engine mount plate. The 1541 was sort of a lie anyway, MTD wanted to sell a "lower" power tractor to make the price lower. They went to Kohler and asked them and Kohler said sure we'll tool up and make you a 15HP engine just for you... In reality they took the 18 HP engine and stuck a different set of jets in its carb. Boom 15 HP. Those carb jets were the real only difference between the 1541 and it's big brother the 1863. The rest of the tractor is the same and the engines are the same as well, just change the jets. As for a repower, pick an engine you like. My 1863 is running a Kohler Command 22 hp at the moment out of a 3206 Had to change the muffler and remove the funky pulley and it bolted right in just like it would in your 1541. People on here have used other Kohler, Briggs, Kawasaki, Honda and even Kubota engines to repower them. All but the Honda was factory done as well over the years. Some have even used the Predator engine from HF on them. Really the only restraint is the shaft size, height above the base and if it will fit under the plastic.
Owner of an 1863, 2263 (1863 W 22hp engine!) 2084 and a 2 - 2284s.


"In God we trust, All others pay CASH..."

154111
Posts: 6
Joined: Wed Oct 11, 2017 9:34 pm
First and Last Name: David Duran
Location: vinton texas

Re: 1541 engine replacement

Post by 154111 »

Thank you, a lot.

Post Reply