New Motors, Re-Powering a Craftsman

[RustyIron]

Howdy Gang
I have a pair of early 80's Craftsman Garden Tractors that need motors.
At least one was equiped with the Briggs & Stratton 18hp opposed twin. Probably both were at one point in time.
These have the heavy cast iron 3 speed tranny, with the high/low range, driven by belt off the flywheel end of the motor.
I have two of the opposed Briggs twins, but I was thinking about installing a newer Briggs motor. Something in a V-Twin with an oil filter perhaps.
I plan to use these machines for the heavier work here on the fresh veggie farm, that is to small for my full sized tractors to get at. Thus my thinking about the oil filter, as these machines will be seeing a ton of dust and heat.
Forgive me for derailing there.
My question's to all of you are these...
1. Would a newer V-Twin fit under the hood despite the air ducting shrouds?
2. Has anyone ever attemped doing this transplant?
3. Did it work?
4. Has anyone hooked up a hydraulic pump to the motors out put shaft for a hydraulic 3 point/sleeve hitch set up?
Let me know.
Thanks
Rusty

[95Tracker]

Never on a craftsman, but did install a V twin on an 18 horse opposed MTD. Fit in there like it was made for it. It worked perfectly. I have never installed a hydraulic pump on one but I'm sure it can be done. Maybe Dan can shed a little light on that subject.

[RustyIron]

Thanks for that tip!!
I might just grab a new motor in toss in there.
Rusty!