Abilene Machine has overhaul kits for around $700. After this you really don't necessarily need a tractor mechanic any diesel mechanic should be able to fix this.

I THINK this tractor has a frame so you can pull the motor and NOT split it. Lots of people can do this that's just basic mechanical skills.

You need a full set of Manuals for any machine you ever own. The Manuals should explain in detail how do things like remove the engine.

Once the engine is removed you can take it to a couple places here in Birmingham and they can rebuild it. PM me and I can give you some options if you go this route. I pull old tractors out of the weeds ALL the time and I have had several engines overhauled locally but I have had to take the motor to them in the back of my truck.

Unfortunately if want it fixed and not spend $20k+ you'll have to take the bull by the horns and do some leg work. Huddleston Equipment over near Wedowee would probably fix it outright if you wanted to just drop it off somewhere. He can for sure do it.