engine question

[mgc1953]

I have a older Sidewinder(Hustler) with an 18hp opposed Briggs. I have a chance to get a Vanguard 16hp. Would this be a wise swap??

[hydromike]

The Vanguard is a physically smaller, and lighter engine than the 18 opposed Briggs. There are quite a bit more performance mods to be done to a Vanguard than an opposed engine at the moment, too (if that's something that you'd look into down the line). I don't know if you'd notice the difference in horsepower, but if the 18 is getting a little old or worn out, then it's not the worst idea. You can always freshen up the flat twin and save the 16 Vanny for another project, too.

I don't know if the Sidewinders ever had a sliding engine-mount (to adjust drive belt tension), but most of the later Hustler models do not. If you're going to do a swap, it would be a perfect time to get in there and modify the engine mount to a sliding style unit.

~m

[mgc1953]

thanks for the info -- the briggs is pretty strong -- how fast should it go?? seems kinda slow but the belt is the original Salsbury -- have another belt coming. Hope it ups the speed a bit.

[hydromike]

Sorry, I never replied to this. I need to pay better attention.

Even more sorry, because I don't know how fast the Sidewinder should be. 25-30mph? Maybe 35? I've never peered into one to look at the gearing, but I would expect you should be able to get that much out of it with everything in good order. I think that a new belt would make a big difference if speed seems to be off.

~m