Engine Parts

[SpiderSpartan]

I picked up a briggs 5.5hp (126412-0043-E1) off Craig's list, and wouldn't you know it, I opened the case to find a busted cam gear. The good news is it's plastic so it doesn't appear to have done any damage to the engine. I looked up the part, 693404 is exact replacement with plastic gear and rockers, 695285 is the updated metal part. Cheapest replacement I could find was the plastic replacement, for $30, about twice what I'd like to spend at most. My question is two fold:

1. Does anyone have any idea if I could use a different Cam? There are several cheaper ones out there.
2. Where do you get your engine parts on the cheap? Is Ebay the best bet?

Update: I found part 691164 listed on ebay as a 5/5.5HP camshaft, with a listing from a repair shop as a part from 5HP 206cc. My engine is a 5.5HP Intek 206cc, so I'm going to give it a shot. I'll post back with results, but I'm still interested if anyone else has tried something similar.

 

[AsphaltCowboy]

Go to www.tewarehouse.com lots of cheap and reliable parts.

 

[SpiderSpartan]

That site looks OK, but they have both the original metal and plastic cams listed for the same price. Seems odd. Looking like just over $45 after S&H.

I chickened out on taking a chance with the other, 691164 camshaft. Found an animal camshaft that specifically stated that it fits the 5.5hp Intek engine. $5 more for what should be a sure thing. Ended up paying just over $20 including S&H for a full metal cam.

 

[SpiderSpartan]

I got the animal camshaft in the Intek 206 and it runs like a dream. I'm actually kind of glad the original was broke or else I'd just be running the stock setup. With the metal camshaft I feel like I can safely push the engine a little harder.