Can I replace only the piston assembly of a 1978 Case 444?

[spaghetti0s]

I can take out a Kohler K321 engine out of a 1982 Case 444 that still works, but produces too much smoke. My 1978 Case 444 had not been the most reliable when it came to the engine, but I could swear it worked better than my John Deere 6130R for thawing ice. That is why I am really trying my best to save it. I cannot afford a full rebuild, so I am thinking whether any of you have an idea on the possibility of simply changing the piston assembly of the 82 444's engine? Just a few days ago, I took the original engine from my 78 444 to a rebuild shop, but when I got it back, it immediately got broken. So, I brought it back to them for warranty, and they said there was nothing they could do about it anymore. I understand it is a really old pal, but as I said it is very effective with its job. I want to mow the lawn this coming Saturday as my daughters are coming by on Sunday. I hope I can get help from you here before then.

 

[FullMetalJacket]

If I were you, and it's just burning some oil, NOT rattling and clunking, just run it. but remember to keep an eye on the oil level.

 

[Sno0zefulALex8]

For the Kohler k321 engine, replacing just the piston assembly is possible and can help reduce smoke without a full rebuild. Inspect the cylinder walls for wear or scoring as they might need honing for the new piston to work properly. Have you considered if the rings need replacing to ensure a tighter seal? Let me know how it goes!

 

[Geofram Bornhald]

Just ensure that the cylinder bore is exactly the same and you might still need new piston rings for this. Good luck in getting it going for Sat!

 

[NoliMeTangere]

I can take out a Kohler K321 engine out of a 1982 Case 444 that still works, but produces too much smoke. My 1978 Case 444 had not been the most reliable when it came to the engine, but I could swear it worked better than my John Deere 6130R for thawing ice. That is why I am really trying my best to save it. I cannot afford a full rebuild, so I am thinking whether any of you have an idea on the possibility of simply changing the piston assembly of the 82 444's engine? Just a few days ago, I took the original engine from my 78 444 to a rebuild shop, but when I got it back, it immediately got broken. So, I brought it back to them for warranty, and they said there was nothing they could do about it anymore. I understand it is a really old pal, but as I said it is very effective with its job. I want to mow the lawn this coming Saturday as my daughters are coming by on Sunday. I hope I can get help from you here before then.

This post was a while back, I am so sorry for you. I hope a month later you got to fix the problem and had fun with your daughters.

 

[Christian Dior]

I can take out a Kohler K321 engine out of a 1982 Case 444 that still works, but produces too much smoke. My 1978 Case 444 had not been the most reliable when it came to the engine, but I could swear it worked better than my John Deere 6130R for thawing ice. That is why I am really trying my best to save it. I cannot afford a full rebuild, so I am thinking whether any of you have an idea on the possibility of simply changing the piston assembly of the 82 444's engine? Just a few days ago, I took the original engine from my 78 444 to a rebuild shop, but when I got it back, it immediately got broken. So, I brought it back to them for warranty, and they said there was nothing they could do about it anymore. I understand it is a really old pal, but as I said it is very effective with its job. I want to mow the lawn this coming Saturday as my daughters are coming by on Sunday. I hope I can get help from you here before then.

This thread is old and haven't seen you post anything recently. I hope you did show your upgraded Case to your dear daughters.