xbunsenx's Hustler Project

[xbunsenx]

Well I have finally decided to start rebuilding my Hustler. I got this machine from a Craigslist ad. It was not operational. It came with a 2-cycle Kohler. I am installing an 18 HP Briggs Vanguard with a Comet 780 clutch. The T-20 already has the 780 Driven clutch.

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List of products/parts used:
- Engine: Briggs Vanguard 18hp, Model=350447 Type=1066
- Clutch: Comet 780, Model=302405A, 302405A-W2 - 780 Series Drive Clutch for Recreatives Ind Max ATVs | ATV Parts | MFG Supply
- Belt: Pix 301195, O.C.=46", Top Width=1-3/16", C.D.=13.21" for Comet 780
- Throttle Lever: Origin8 Mini Trigger Brake Lever, http://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Mini-T...ilpage_o00_s00
- Throttle cable: 90" ATV Throttle Cable, Model=4-289, 4-269 - 90" ATV Throttle Cable | Go Kart & Mini Bike Parts | MFG Supply
- Throttle swivel: Walbro 52-501

[TravisW]

Solid body! Looking forward to seeing the progress.

[Don]

Great! It's always good to see another Hustler lurking about the neighborhood.

[xbunsenx]

It is in the garage. I cleaned it up a bit as it had a lot of "stuff" in the tub. I found sockets, screw drivers, nuts, bolts, rags, and etc. I am mocking up the engine location to plan a mounting to the engine plate. I have to lift the engine off of the stock engine plate because it is too big to sit directly on it. Also, it will make it easier to maintain. I had to order a 46" belt to have it sit where I wanted it to.

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P.S.: Don, this is the one that I had just acquired back when we were out riding in Harrisonburg. That was a great time. I hope you were able to fix the Little Truck.

[hydromike]

I have to lift the engine off of the stock engine plate because it is too big to sit directly on it. Also, it will make it easier to maintain.

The mounting plate that the original Briggs opposed twins sat on is huge, and you're right; it blocks access to just about anything you need to get to in the left rear of the tub. A lot of folks have done the Briggs V-twin swap in the Hustlers, so there should be several pictures to look at in the gallery if you need any inspiration. 'Looks good. Take a can of WD-40 and a stiff-bristle scrub brush to that upper and watch it shine. Don't even rinse it off, the lighter fraction volatilizes off and leaves a decent layer of oil on the plastic that helps quite a bit in post-ride cleanup.

[dirtdobber]

Hey xbunsenx, that machine looks like the same model as the one I'm building. If you by chance can get a good pic of the gas tank and mounts I would greatly appreciate it. My machine came with a tank and no mounts. I'm not sure if it's the right tank. Thanks in advance.

[Dan67]

The factory gas tank had the mount built into the tank. Both side should have a flared tab on it with two holes for bolting to the upper body. Should be made of aluminum. If you have a plastic tank it is not the original. Tank is mounted in the front.

[xbunsenx]

Dan is correct. I will take a picture when I get around to removing the top.

[dirtdobber]

Thanks guys. That's what I thought. My gas tank is plastic and only about half the width of the body.

[Dan67]

Post a pic of our gas tank Dirtdobber and lets figure out what it is and how to mount it.