I bought a Rc-80 in extremely poor condition.  I had many doubts, but paid only $400 so I thought it was worth a try.  I knew the engine was frozen but the tractor was remarkably complete so the down side was to part it out, and an inspection of the lower engine showed no water in the oil and clean lower cylinders so I was hopeful.

When the usual tricks to unfreeze the engine did not work, I pulled the head and found two cylinders badly rusted (two valves were left open), and rusted valves in the head - one rusted clear off.

Now I'm rethinking the whole project, and seeking advice.  I can always part it out but I hate to see that happen and besides this is really a pretty rare tractor.  I'll need a complete engine rebuild, the carb is rough but rebuildable, the mag looks ok.  Needs radiator, gas tank, some sheet metal at least.

Questions:

1.  Can an engine be found for this?
2.  Are there companies that I could ship this to and have it rebuilt?
3.  Are there engine parts available anyway - valves, pistons, rings, seals, gaskets?
4.   And a heresy - is an engine transplant something anyone has considered, knowing the lower part of the engine now is part of the frame?


Any suggestions, guidance and advice would be appreciated.  I'm back on the fence about this one.