It does run. I spent the evening swapping everything over. I only kept the main engine part together so I had to swap over the carb, I had an extra PTO basket, muffler, starter generator, and gas tank and bracket. Only took me a couple hours. Now I just need to put the seat back on and make a cover for the tunnel, and hopefully it’ll run for a little while before something else happens.

Attachment 98532


Here’s a better look at that window. Ouch!
Attachment 98533

Sorry about that Steve. That sucks to have that happen just when you thought you were ahead of the game. I like your driveshaft fix. I did the same on a 149 using 1/2 original shaft and 1/2 of a new blue button style shaft.

Not to worry. The replacement engine runs better than the original. The original is the one I had all the issues with that turned out to be the fuel line plugged. I always had a little trouble getting it started, like the battery wasn’t strong enough. So maybe it was just tight to begin with. The replacement spins right over and fires up instantly and purs. One thing of note, the original has a .020 piston in it and a crack in the block fin near the exhaust port. So, there’s that. But I’m happy, I’m glad I had the spare and it was an easy swap.

Took her for a ride and decided to take a family picture. Attachment 98536

Looks great Steve! The last of the "all metal" tractors for IH, the 123 is a solid piece of equipment and now that the engine is replaced, it should be good to go for many more years!

Cub Cadet 123