You can find a new 8hp engine at smallenginewarehouse.com the price is $375.00 plus shipping.

I would like to stay with the electric start. My engine is model 196437 type E1 code 980107Y0. The engines at smallenginewarehouse are 196432 and don't appear to be electric start. If I decided to replace valves and rings do I REALLY need a special tool to release the piston from the crankshaft? and another tool to compress the new rings to reinsert the piston? How expensive are the tools?

Mike

Some of the automotive parts houses will rent out a piston ring compressor! Just tell them what size you need, or what you are going to use it on! I don't know if Auto Zone or one like them will rent out tools, but our long established place rents them out!
Rustyj

Hose clamps come in many sizes and widths and can be used for more than just clamping the end of a hose if you get my drift. :) Oh, and they are very inexpensive.

Yes, i have used them, too. They're tricky to use, but with care they will suffice! Just clamp two together end to end, and tighten them up. Watch for the rings so they down't slip out, when you get down to the nitty gitty.

I agree and have been using hose clamps to compress piston rings.
Clean any carbon from the cylinder bore chamfer.
Get your rings lined up on the piston, stagger the piston ring gaps.
Clamp them down tight with the hose clamp.
Set the assembly in the bore with the con'rod in the proper position. The assy will stop at the hose clamp.
Back the hose clamp off about 1/3 to 1/2 turn.
Tap her in with the butt of a wooden hammer.
Tap.... they will go in, and use Lubriplate Type A grease. The best stuff.