Bolens 1254's, and Wisconsin 12 hp engines

Chaz Harris · Nov 2, 2009

Well, I have been considering a Bolens for plowing, disking, etc., for a while now, and found a 1254 for $250 with no spark. Is this a fair price? I think he would give me a 44" deck and moldboard plow if I buy it. Looks pretty good, but I think it's sat a while outside, rusty frame and the seat foam is "melted" off for the most part. So, is it worth $250? My guess would be $150 for it, myself. But thats based on crappy MTD's.

Also, I found a running 12 hp Wisconsin that the guy is asking $100 for, but it is a WI 390. Will they interchange with the TRA12D?

And finally, what's better, a 12 hp 1254 Bolens or a 70's 14 hp Simplicity? I could buy eithier one.

Thanks,
Chaz

greygoat · Nov 2, 2009

I have a 6 inch thick Wisconsin engine master
parts manual. It lists Wisconsin Diesels WD1-340,
WD1-350, and WD1-430, as having the same crancase
which suggests that the crankshaft height from a
flat surface may be the same, and the mounting
bolt pattern is the same. They have different
pistons, so bore and stroke must be different.
HOWEVER--My book shows NO model WI 390

Chaz Harris · Nov 2, 2009

Well, I don't know much about Wisconsin engines, the seller said it's a WI 390 in the ad. Here's a link: http://atlanta.craigslist.org/sat/for/1426620356.html. I wanted to know if it's a direct, bolt-it-on-and-go replacement, a later model, etc., with a different name. I have a 10 hp N.O.S. Tecumseh that I am probably going to modify the tractor use if the ignition can't be fixed. The engine is about 90 miles away, and would only be worth it if it was the same as a TRA12D.

Thanks,
Chaz

El Toro · Nov 3, 2009

The points probably need to be filed or rubbed with 320 wet or dry to get it to fire. With the implements that's not a bad price. Hal

Chaz Harris · Nov 3, 2009

Hal, No points to rub... Solid state "Ignition Module". They are known to blow up. :roll: But I found a replacement part: http://www.samsbolens.com/newignition.html

-Chaz

Trailer Trash Tractors · Nov 3, 2009

Prices vary by locale, check local Craigs List for ballpark prices . I've owned both Simplicitys and a Bolens. The Bolens is a true aristocrat, feels like heavy equipment, the Simplicity is tinny, but gets the job done. Bolens parts are pricey, the machine has a cult following, the price seems cheap enough, don't let a little rust scare you, that metal's thick !

For peace of mind, look up decals and graphics for the machine your considering,
paint can be had, graphics ?

Chaz Harris · Nov 3, 2009

Hi,

Thanks for the info!

(P.S., I'm not scared of rust, to say the least. :wink: Just thought that might make it be worth a little less, that's all.)

The graphics/decals are acctually made by a few people, surprisingly enough. :?

Thanks,
Chaz

Bolens 1254's, and Wisconsin 12 hp engines

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