Because that is a synchro-balance engine, and a fair number of those spit the dummy when they get old, there are always people looking for full replacement engines in decent shape to get their ride-on mowers back into production. If it doesn't have water in it, there is a very good chance it will be at least moderately healthy. Needing new rings is fairly insignificant - if the balance system and bore are OK, that engine's a piece of gear people want.
So far as selling it for parts is concerned, the flo-jet carburetor and the starter/alternator alone are popular items.
