Ariens Zoom - DOA!

[Mike126]

Well my Ariens Mini Zoom died this past week. I took it into the shop and they said that some water got into the cylinder and did some damage. Basically what it needs is a new valve seat, cylinder head and starter (the water damage rusted the starter). The cost to repair is $900. The cost to replace the engine is $1350. What would you guys do? Am I looking at potentially more damage? The mechanic said it should run ok but may burn a little oil.

I think what happened was 2 years ago I stored it outside over the winter. I wrapped it up to keep the mice out. It seems that caused excessive humidity and caused the water to get in through the carb/manafold.


Mike :cry:

[MowerMedic77]

Could you please post your engine numbers model and spec# both

[Mike126]

It's the Kohler 15hp Courage the engine is the SV470.

Thanks, Mike

[MowerMedic77]

Basically what it needs is a new valve seat, cylinder head and starter (the water damage rusted the starter). The cost to repair is $900.

I'm not sure if there is more to this story then you are posting as far as what the dealer would be doing to your engine or what, but if the dealer is only replacing your cylinder head and starter and a head gasket kit for the top end and no other work you only have around $300 in parts that would mean $600 in labor.
Cylinder head(bare) meaning reusing your valves/springs is list around $130
Cylinder head gasket kit is list around $17.00
and the Starter assembly for your engine list is around $82.00

I would get a detailed(itemized) list of parts and labor/ what work will be preformed before you agree to anything.

[mowerknower]

Yep, sounds a little high. Get a detailed quote.

[Mowingman]

If it does need a lot of repairs, I do not think I would rebuild it. I would replace it with a new engine. The Courage are kind of cheap, low quality engines to start with. I do not think the kind of rebuild you are talking about would last long.

[Mike126]

Hey guys thanks for the replies. Actually both estimates include the pickup delivery charge of $90 a new battery (debatable if this is really needed, old one is about 2 years old), sharpening and tax etc. So subtract about $175. Even still the labor charge is pretty high.

My initial reaction was to go with the rebuild. However, as much as I'd rather not have to pay another $450 for a new engine, it seems that the new engine may be the better option. I don't have to worry about other parts failing as well as any additional engine work with cylindars etc. I priced out the new engine and it is around $900 (SVM470-0003) and delivery adds another $75 - 100. That would leave about $200 for installation which is about right (I would guess about 2 - 3 hours work). I would also get a 2 year warranty on the engine.