Vanguard Engine for Max4

[johnny rotton]

Looking to put a 23 hp Vanguard Engine in my Max4. Can any one help with a model # ? Also looking for a rear seat frame for a max4.Thanks in advance.

[Mike]

When you say a model number, are you talking about a model number so that you can order the engine? If you search google for briggs and stratton vanguard 23hp you should be able to find one with or without the model number: Vanguard™ 23.0 HP V-Twin | Briggs & Stratton SEA

[Dano1877]

He's probably wanting a model number so that he gets the right shaft size for the clutch? Which is 2 1/2 X 1 INCH.

[philipatmaxfour]

Max 4 machines come with a 23 kohler engine from the. factory and until about 2005 they were available with a 25 kohler. why would you want to switch to a 23 Vanguard?

[johnny rotton]

Well I thought the vanguard would be a good replacement I have a 1980 Max4 with a 16 HP Tecumseh. Open to any advice. Sorry It took so long to respond.

[Normable1973]

I recently put a kohler command pro 27 in my max 4, it previously had a briggs 18 vanguard, the difference in power is incredible and worth every penny.... Norm

[akranger72]

Yep if you haven't already just match up crank shaft length and diameter in order to use your existing clutch. If your getting a new clutch then match shaft to it. Make sure you get one with an external oil cooler and one that can be easily wired to your ignition.

[Noel Woods]

I'm not a big fan of the B&S 23 HP, I think its one of the lesser desirable engines out there that's available. I've got one in an amphib and it requires a lot of fiddling with to keep in tip top shape and the design was pretty cheap. When I compare it to the 18hp B&S I bought a few years earlier It comes up short.

I believe you would be better off with a Kohler 23, 25, or 27 hp. You may have to upgrade clutches as indicated but its a much better series of engines. The new Predator 22hp engine from Harbor Freight might be a consideration as well because they are inexpensive, but there's not much experience out there yet with these, and the Kohler is a proven package.

[Tomo]

hi
The stock carby on a 23 vanguard is not the greatest and can cause issues .
The repair is to fit a Mukuni. Performance vtwins . He fits these to his own engines . Once u order from him they come pre jetted etc .
The 23 hp is a smaller engine and only makes reasonable torque . The 27 hp Kawasaki or the kohler 27hp make a lot more torque and are a better choice but more costly .

tomo

[fmints]

I'm not a big fan of the B&S 23 HP, I think its one of the lesser desirable engines out there that's available. I've got one in an amphib and it requires a lot of fiddling with to keep in tip top shape and the design was pretty cheap. When I compare it to the 18hp B&S I bought a few years earlier It comes up short.

I believe you would be better off with a Kohler 23, 25, or 27 hp. You may have to upgrade clutches as indicated but its a much better series of engines. The new Predator 22hp engine from Harbor Freight might be a consideration as well because they are inexpensive, but there's not much experience out there yet with these, and the Kohler is a proven package.

I have owned a 16 and 18 Briggs, and recently built an 18 Briggs to about a 30+ hp motor in my Maxs. I also have a 23 Kohler in my Huslter. Although my built 30+hp Briggs in my wife's MaxIV is a super strong and so far reliable motor, my 18hp Briggs was a complete beast in my late '93 Max II! If I had to pick one motor between the 4 motors that I have had and still own, I would pick my 23hp Kohler. Unlike the Briggs, which require routine valve lash adjustments, the Kohler has hydraulic lifters and only require the normal oil change and carb cleaning every blue moon. It has never stalled or failed me leaving me stranded in the woods. The only thing that I do not favor of the Kohlers is the plastic Governor Gear in the engine, which will make the engine run away (redline rpm's out of control) if the gear ever breaks or strips teeth. Then there is issue of price of the motors when compared with the Kohler being the most expensive, but finding aftermarket performance parts for the briggs is easily available than the Kohler.

Briggs and Stratton is good, but in my opinion, Kohler is better!!

[johnny rotton]

Thanks Guys for all the input. I'll let you know what I come up with.