jd 345 engine conversion

[bluemower]

received a John Deere 345 that has a liquid cooled Kawasaki. The radiator is positioned on top of the engine and I did not see any hyd lines associated with the engine cooling. The engine cranks over, but the valve train does not move. pushrods are intact. this probably has a failed plastic gear on the camshaft.

have a 23 hp vanguard (38 cubic inch) with a 1 1/8" crank and an oil cooler. Has anyone tried this conversion?

[mr-moe]

That Kawasaki camshaft is a known high hour failure part.
There is and update kit includes camshaft, lifters and push rods available.
Well worth changing out as opposed to putting a Briggs in it.
Less time spent. Better engine.

[bluemower]

the owner stated the Kawasaki was having too many problems and authorized installation of the vanguard. Modifications were made to adapt as needed.