Replacement Engine for Universal 5424

[Obi Wan]

I took my engine to the local Kubota dealer who told me they could overhaul it for under $2000. A day later they called me and told me it will cost twice that much. I could put it back in since it did run OK, just a little low compression, but I'm exploring my options.
Anyone have advice on replacement options (models that would be a drop-in replacement - wouldn't have to be the same model). Places to acquire a re-built or new engine for a good price?

[Aloha_float]

Beta - but expensive. It's another marinized kubota so similar concept to the universal engine. Why twice as much? What changed the price?

[Obi Wan]

Well, they said the first guy I talked to looked up parts for a different engine (even though I told him on the phone it was the same as the 1101) and generally underestimated the effort. Pretty lame excuse in my opinion. I made the decision to stop working on it myself, put it back together and take it to this place based on the first estimate (actually second - the first was $800 which I knew was way too low).

[Aloha_float]

I don't know what kind of budget you have but it may not be worth rebuilding the Universal if you can afford to refit with a new engine. I say BETA as they are not electronic control and still serviceable for a lay mechanic. you might be able to find something newer or a rebuilt but it is likely to be the same price as rebuilding your own.

There is a video on youtube showing the rebuild of a Hurth HBW10 that I watched today and it was worth watching as I brought mine into a rebuild shop here in Canada. $350 CAD flat rate + parts

If you rebuild your engine, you can feel comfortable that it will be ready to offer you more service provided you keep up your end of the bargain by taking good care of it.

[Aloha_float]

You could go with the 25 or 30 - depending on whether or not it will fit into the existing compartment and you felt under powered.

Beta 25 | Betamarine US Ltd.

This is essentially a marinized kubota - so the same concept as Universal did back in the 80's

[Stu Jackson]

Originally Posted by Obi Wan

.........models that would be a drop-in replacement - wouldn't have to be the same model).

WADR, these two "wishes" are incvompatable. Sorry, but that's reality.

The issues are primarily the exhaust system - riser, coolant nipple, etc., and then the electrical connections. The "bed" may work out, but the mounts are almost guarnateed to be in a slightly different location.

Good luck, can't go wrong with a BETA from everything I've read, haven't heard one bad thing about them.

[Aloha_float]

The M25 is also an option - see here some engines available

https://www.dieselenginetrader.com/E.../M25_M35/53550

USD $2895.00

would this be a good option? perhaps they could take your engine on trade?

https://countrysalesandservice.com/

[westwinds]

What did the mechanic say was wrong with the old Universal and what does the parts list cover? What machine shop procedures are needed? Also, the old Universal may have some residual value as it did run. If the pistons were removed, then cylinder honing and new rings are needed.