Can clutch from 16 amp system be used on 9 amp engine

[shopteacher]

Hello again,
I replaced a 24 horse briggs with a 16 amp system witha 20 horse briggs, but didn't realize the smaller amps might destroy the electric clutch. Can this be done? I can't convert the 20 horse to a higher amperage system with out a great deal of trouble (or can I?)
I had a nice 20 horse I was trying to use instead of replacing the 24 horse.
What say you???
Thanks, oh thanks, ye mighty mower warriors, gear heads, grease monkeys...

[JimQ]

No problem, depending on clutch manufacturer, size, etc, the clutch will only draw 3 to 5 amps. Where you could run into problems is by adding headlights or other accessories. For example, a pair of 55 Watt head lights will draw 9+ amps.

Q

[shopteacher]

So let me get this straight. I have a smaller charging system on the new engine, and that will be ok to run the old electric pto clutch that had a larger amperage?
Thanks again

[BigFish]

Yes. The battery is supplying juice to the clutch. The engine charging alt/circuit supplies juice to charge the battery. As long as the clutch is drawing LESS than the alt. is putting back (charging) you should be OK.
Obviously, more is better, but I don't know if they make a higher output stator for your engine, they may......