JD Gx345 engine replacement

[paulcho]

I have John-Deere Gx345 with a Kawasaki FD611V-_FS01 engine that went bad, I was looking at a Predator engine that Harbor Freight sells, It is a 708 CC 22 HP Item # 62879 Just wondering if anyone has done this.

 

[Alan W.]

I have John-Deere Gx345 with a Kawasaki FD611V-_FS01 engine that went bad, I was looking at a Predator engine that Harbor Freight sells, It is a 708 CC 22 HP Item # 62879 Just wondering if anyone has done this.

Just curious what happened to the Kawasaki?

 

[paulcho]

While I was mowing grass the oil light came on that is when I went back to the barn and noticed oil leaking out over the engine pulley, I did remove the engine and installed a new crank oil seal also new oil and filter, It no longer leaks oil but now at idle or about 1/3 throttle the oil light comes on, I also cut the the original oil filter apart and found metal inside, I drained the oil again and it has a grey metallic color to it, I am going to try # 40 weight oil and a new filter, I don't intend to use it for cutting grass but it has the leaf attachment on it which I will need this fall.Weather I get any use out of it remains to be seen. This tractor was purchased used and the engine was rebuilt one time that I know of.

 

[Gator6x4]

I have John-Deere Gx345 with a Kawasaki FD611V-_FS01 engine that went bad, I was looking at a Predator engine that Harbor Freight sells, It is a 708 CC 22 HP Item # 62879 Just wondering if anyone has done this.

Those that have used the Predator engines only reported problems with the gas hook up, (check your original) then do a visual on the predator engine in the store. Also check the crankshaft size. JD has been know to use a odd size crankshaft end stub for pulleys. Also check the size of the predator engine and what it has protruding out in different places than the existing engine make sure you will be able to close the hood when you get it installed. And last don’t forget to check the exhaust. Will it come out the same place as the old engine.

I think it is doable with a little patience and some minor fabrication.