John Deere 3hp engine

Found this 3 hp engine for sale and he is asking 350. For it. Missing several parts that may be hard to find. What can you guys tell me about this engine and if the missing parts are available anywhere. Thanks for your help.gcm

Okay now, just from the pictures that you posted. I can see the head is on upside down and the governor cover is off and no magneto on this unit. The oil pan is rotted away and the gas tank is non exhistant. So, lets say that the piston and bearings are good and go from there. The mag will set you back around 200 up to 400 depending on where and who you get one from, "I would hope that it is a good one in that price range". The next item would be the ignitor. That will run from 100 to 175 for one that should be functional. The oil pan and gas tank along with a complete gasket set will be around 150 to 200 for new items as a group. Used oil pans and gas tanks can be found but normally are not used because of age and possible future issues if thin. Push rod, misc bolts and fastners, fuel line set up and the misc can be found and bought. So, depending on what you plan on for this unit, the total restoration could end up costing another $800 and then you still aren't on any cart yet to aid in moving this around. The base unit as you showed in the pictures makes it look like a decent starting point. But, in my opinion, they are over priced on it. I stayed away from the piston, rings, and bearings in this retoration costs. Since they are there doesn't mean they are in good enough shape to use. I would hope that they are. If not then you will be looking at that much more in the costs to retore it.

You would be further along to go to an auction or buy one privately in the 1 1/2 hp range. Get that one fixed up and sell it to help finance a more costly 3 hp one. You should be able to pick up a decent 1 1/2 E engine that is complete for the 400 - 600 price. Get it running and dependable and sell it for 700-1000. Then find a 3 hp unit that needs a good home and you will be farther along in the end. Best of luck in collecting.

Wise advise. Parts aren't cheap and this engine looks like it needs a lot of parts.