Craftsman lawn mower with blown valve seat. Repair shop states engine needs to be replaced.?

Want to know if a Blown Valve Seat would mean that the engine needs to be replaced? The repair shop is stating this, but want a second opinion.
Want to know if a Blown Valve Seat would mean that the engine needs to be replaced? The repair shop is stating this, but want a second opinion.

- Everyone, thanks for your comments. I appreciate the input. It's a push mower (my mom's). Just found out that a guy I know would highly recommend the repair shop that I brought it to. So, since my wanted one with an electric start anyway, looks like we will be going that route. Thanks again.

Comments

4 Responses to “Craftsman lawn mower with blown valve seat. Repair shop states engine needs to be replaced.?”

bbking48507 says:

April 29, 2009 at 3:34 pm

I just picked up a simplicity riding lawnmower with a 14 hp Briggs & Stratton Vanguard engine that had the valve seat fall out of the head. After pulling the head off, there was no damage to the piston or cylinder. I picked up a used head for $60 plus a head gasket and put it back together and runs like a champ. Unless there was collateral damage from the seat falling out causing the valve to contact the piston, I don't see why the entire engine would need to be replaced. But, I can't see the engine so I can't know all the details. Ask them if the can just replace the head or if the piston needs to be replaced as well. Also, how old is the mower and is it worth fixing the old engine or just replacing it?
vrrJT3 says:

April 29, 2009 at 3:34 pm

You'll end up paying much more in parts and labor to re-build the lawn mower engine than to just buy a new engine, or mower for that matter.
101 says:

April 29, 2009 at 3:34 pm

yes, buy a new engine or mower.
Boatman says:

April 29, 2009 at 3:34 pm

Is it a tractor or push mower? If it's a larger engine, with overhead valves, it's probably worth repairing. If it's an L-head push mower, the seat is in the block. Short block it or just buy a new mower. It's worth doing yourself, but not paying $50-$60 per hour for it.