982 what 2 do?
 

got an IH built 982 that has been sitting in garage for many years waiting for complete restoration/rebuild. The big question is do I rebuild the original Onan engine or do I re-power it with a Vanguard? What are your expert opinions on this? A rebuild kit alone is $1300. I can get a re-power kit for $1750.

:beatdeadhorse:

Tough call. I am no expert. Gives us more details. How many hours on the motor? Any particular known damage to the engine or is it just tired? Those with knowledge of these motors will be along.

Find a 2000 Series Cub for about 400 yank the Command and sell the rest...I have done this to at least 4 other older tractors....318's and 420's....Onans are getting harder and harder to get parts for..as same for the Mags....

not sure how many hours on tractor. It came out of a scrap yard so I do not know any history on it. just hated to see it be turned into tin cans. It needs a complete bolt and nut, front to back restoration.

Restoration means different things to different folks. You say a complete front to back restoration, to me that means putting it back 100% stock and repairing/replacing anything worn or not working quite as it should, no modifications allowed--in other words you have no choice but to keep the Onan. Now if you just want to mow grass that's one thing, if you want to fix up what is worn bad and them mow, that's another. Personally, I'd get it running first, assuming the engine is complete. All it should cost is an oil change. Then you would have a better idea of how good of condition the motor is as well as being able to test the rest of the machine. Once you know all that, then you can formulate a better idea of what kind of project you want this to be. As you probably already found out, Onan parts are a little harder to find and not cheap. I plan on running my Onan till it croaks, then I'll worry about rebuilding/repairing. Just remember, if you ditch the Onan, its worth money in parts so don't haul it to the scrap yard!