Hi. We have a John Deere riding mower, a L110, with a Kohler motor. It's had light use the last 3 1/2 years, now the motor seized up. No oil leaks, oil changed regularly, never ran out. We have no idea why it blew.

Now we have to decide whether to repair it, or replace it. A new short block installed would run 1,350.00 from the purchasing dealer, a new model 1,650.00. The new mower has a Briggs & Straton.

The other option is to try to have the motor rebuilt. Any suggestions appreciated.

Thanks, Jeff, New Life Church in Sherwood, Oregon

Jeff, was the engine running when it seized or did it happen over the winter during storegae? Does it chap your hide $1350 for a short block or $1650 for new?

It was in use two weeks ago. He shut it off to talk on the phone. This is Oregon, so it was about 70 degreess outside. He's been mowing about 20 minutes. He tried to start it about 10 minutes later and got nothing. We're a church, using the mower about 6 months out of the year, mowing about 1/3 of an acre. It's never run out of oil, and in fact had a fresh oil change. I know we didn't abuse it at all, so it seems like it shouldn't have tanked on us so soon. We bought a Deere thinking we were getting a good, reliable product.

I'm not inclined to buy another one so soon. I don't know the reputation for Kohler motors, but I notice the same model now has a Brigg's.

If we replace the motor I'd like to go with a Briggs. I have a guy in church who can install a new motor if we can find one. Thanks for any help you can offer.

Jeff