Rebuilding a Wisconsin VH4D engine

The engine runs well but is weak. A compression check shows 40, 100, 100, 100. I am looking for options and am considering a rebuild. I ordered the VH4D book, WM20249, from Wisconsin Motors which came today. I am a little disappointed in the content of the book and was hoping for a LOT more detail before attempting a rebuild.

Does anybody know another good rebuild manual for the Wisconsin Engine I have? What other engine options should I consider? I've been thinking about some alternatives like a small air-cooled diesel or a Kawasaki air-cooled from a ultra-light! What do you guys think?

• My Ford 340 Loader

Getting back to your engine. From the compression readings, it looks like you have one cylinder with lower compression. Could be something fairly minor like a burned valve or a leaking head gasket. If the engine is "tired", i.e. low power, high oil consumption, making bad noises, etc., it probably should be taken apart and inspected. All parts are available from Wisconsin, and your machine shop can get aftermarket parts. The overhaul cost will depend on the condition, but will be comparable to other engines. Expect up to $200 per cylinder if it's in real bad shape.