Simplicity sunstar Kohler cammand v-twin engine swap

[Deutz guy 88]

HI guys, I have finally got my hands on a 25hp Kohler cammand v-twin that I am going to install in my sunstar, and I was wondering if anyone on here has done this and how many modificationsI will have to make? I know that certain years of the sunstar came with the camman v twin engine but I'm sure that I will have to make alterations so I would really appreciate any information that anyone might have. Thanks in advance. 

[Brettw]

I believe the 20 and 25 horse Commands are the same physical size.  Bore is the only difference between the two, which adds about 100 cubic centimeters (6 cubic inches).  If you are replacing an M18 or M20 with the Command, that would be different as I believe there may be a spacer mounting plate used to keep the crank center the same.  One thing I would verify however, either way, is the crank diameter.  I believe you should be looking for an 1-1/8" shaft on the Sunstar setups for the front PTO.  

[wiscogus]

I just did this a couple months ago! 

I measured and redrilled mounting holes in the stock plate for the M20. It is correct that a longer driveshaft is needed. The yoke cannot be removed easily as it is welded. Also, it is a machined fit against the motor. 

I ended up going on eBay and purchasing a driveshaft from a Sunstar with a Command and that worked well for me. 

I also had to get a different PTO clutch. The old M20 clutch did bolt up, however it did not extend forward enough for the pulleys to line up. 

Exhaust is also semi-difficult to find. This is a generator muffler that I installed. I was able to remove the baffle from the hood and everything pretty well lined up

Also had to order a choke cable from a Command Sunstar as it is longer than a Magnum choke cable. 

As far as electrical goes, I unpinned the connector from the Magnum and installed it on the Command's harness to line up with the connector on the tractor itself. 

 

Edited January 25, 2019 by wiscogus

[PhanDad]

Very nice install.

 

[wiscogus]

Thank you! It was a long time coming. 

[Cricket]

wiscogus, do you happen to know what the difference between the two PTO clutches were, engine block to pulley distance? Also, Engine block to face where the crank bolt engages? 

I am doing a repower with a "kit" and reusing the Magnum clutch puts me 1/2" too short from aligning with the front pulleys. Weirdly enough, the shaft is still 1/2" recessed in the clutch bearing. I think this info might be helpful to others doing engine swaps also.

Thank you

[Nubian]

from a generator, I thought it was best to stay in the same spec # as was suggested previously. I'm also wanting to upgrade from my ch20s to ch25s, if I can find one reasonably priced. Nothing wrong with my 20 just want more power :).