engine over heat

[wigdog]

Hey guys had my mid-80'ish argo out for it's 2nd run - I'm in love! But... I have a problem with it overheating. The 18HP V-twin B&S Vangaurd runs great but it just plain ran out of steam and the heat in the engine compartment was UNREAL. The plastic body was hot to touch, and I really didn't run it that hard; we just would got for quick runs then shut it off for a while then give it another test. Wondering if anyone else has had the problem and found some solutions. I was thinking of wrapping the manifold and exhaust through the engine compartment to prevent that heat from radiating into the area. Also I notice that there was an intake on the passenger side but all that remains is a bit of frayed flex line and a old gear clamp. Can you tell me what this intake set up was like and where it tied into? Is there any sense in trying to put a 12v fan on it to try and really get the air really changing in there?

[pgjeepster]

If it is the flex line I think you are talking about it is about 6" diameter and it ran to the fan/cooling blades on the side of the motor with the pull start wheel on it, this would suck cool air from the outside and blow it over the motor you do need this flex hose to route air in and cool the motor. The flex hose should end about an inch away from these blades when mounted properly.

[evil8x8]

On my Argo there is a fan that blows air down a flex tube to the dash panel where it blows on the disk brakes to keep them cool.

[chinook]

I've seen some run with out the engine cover, or they made a simple cover using a 2x4 frame with bug screen over it. What is the ambient temp?

[artist1018]

Might be time for a flush & fill on the radiator?!?

[pgjeepster]

Air cooled! Route a large(5"-6") diameter flex hose from the right front of your body the slits open to the air right beside and behind the right headlight to the intake fins (looks like a squirrel cage fan)on the right side of your motor use L shaped stand off brackets and a couple of large hose clamps or zap straps to hold the hose in place about an inch away from your motor.

Originally Posted by artist1018

Might be time for a flush & fill on the radiator?!?

[artist1018]

Originally Posted by artist1018

Might be time for a flush & fill on the radiator?!?

My Bad!! My Conquest has a 20 hp, water cooled power plant, OK!?! LOL

[racerone3]

might be time to rebuild the carb. if a jet is cloged it could be running lean and make a lot of heat. this can kill an engine fast. it will run great for a while, and make a TON of power, but in the long run it's gonna hurt the motor. also check the fuel filter, pump and line. also make sure you have the correct spark plugs. "hot" plugs can cause a lot of cylinder head temprature.
good luck

[artist1018]

I bought a set of plugs from TSC that have a lifetime guarantee. Check your local Tractor Supply Co. or, TSC.com for your engine's particular plug.

[racerone3]

where are you located? and is the machine from the same area? altitude can have a big effect on carb jetting