Jump to content

Unofficial Home of Old Simplicity & Allis-Chalmers Garden Tractors

Help needed on Gilson


68_Mag

Recommended Posts

Hello all. I apologize for the off- topic tractor, but I cant find any Gilson groups anywhere...and the best advice seems to come from the Simple Tractors folk. Several months ago, I was prowling junkyards in search of an AC garden tractor. Now, small tractors were never a big thing in my area, so when I saw the Gilson and it's 3 point hitch, I snapped it up. For 50 bucks, I got a complete Gilson, 18 horse 2 cylinder garden tractor with a 4 speed Peerless transaxle- minus the engine. I brought it home, and set about putting the Briggs and Stratton 18 horse, 2 cylinder engine I have into it. It was a direct bolt in. However, my problems began soon enough. I'm working on a tight budget, and a deadline. If it doesnt run within 2 weeks, it gets hauled to the landfill. Now, the engine is mostly complete, with a few small problems. The carb has been 'worked on' before. I picked up a rebuild kit, only to find the float is ruined. So I'll get a new float, then it should be good to go. It's missing the starter. I have a good, working, single cylinder starter, but it wont fit the 2- banger. I would just swap mounting plates with a non- working 2 cylinder starter, but I cant find one. However, I have an option. I met a gentleman who offered to sell me an 18 horse, 2 cylinder Briggs, just like I have, for 100 dollars. It runs for a few seconds, then cuts off. Probably a carb problem. The thing is, I just need the starter. However, buying a running engine and rebuilding it's carb would definately be quicker than trying to get mine running. On mine, I have to wire up the entire electrical system, and I have no idea how. On his, I'd simply have to lift it out of the Murray mower it's currently in, then swap the wiring. I cant decide what would be better to do, though. Do I continue to hunt a starter, or try and scrape together enough money to buy a complete engine? I dont really have the money for an engine, but I have to do something. I also need a battery for the Gilson, and, in time, hitch hardware and a seat. I've been hoping I could trade my good, single cylinder starter for one off the 2 cylinder, or buy a bad 2 cylinder starter and put my mounting bracket on it. Of course, I need to figure out what model Gilson I have, too. Opinions?
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Seems to me I recall hearing that Gilson was bought out by Lawn-Boy, which in turn was bought out by Toro. If you can locate an old time dealer, between him and your Briggs dealer, maybe they can help.
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Thanks, Dutch. I went by the local starter shop and picked up the proper mount for 5 bucks and put it on. So my starter problems are solved...I hope. I'm leaving here in a few minutes to get a new float, a wiring diagram, and hopefully a battery. Maybe I'll be running by the weekend.
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Well, an update. I got a starter mount and the carb done, only to find a major problem. I dont have any idea how to wire this thing. Does anyone have a diagram for a 2 cylinder Briggs 18 horse with a vertical shaft? It just has to start, run, and maybe power some headlights. Thanks
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Guest
This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Who's Online (See full list)

    • Tarheel
  • Recent Status Updates

    • gwiseman

      gwiseman

      As you know SimpletrACtors.com has changed some recently. Working through this so PM me with questions, suggestions, and/or challenges you have. Appreciate your patience and feedback.
      · 0 replies
    • gwiseman

      gwiseman

      Site programming updates were made 3/23/2024. As a result some things have changed including dues payment options. We will continue maintenance and work with technicians to regain credit card payment option and clear up minor challenges. On positive it appears attaching pictures is now easier. Good day. Gene 
      · 1 reply
  • Adverts

×
×
  • Create New...