Max 2 top speed

[pgoose]

I'm new to this site. I have a 1996 max 2 with a 18 hp vanguard. I can only get about 15mph on gps out of it. I've read a lot on this site about clutch upgrades and new clutches. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

[LarryW]

Ussualy top speed problems are belt related. As a belt wears thinner it gets loose and then it messes with the ratios. Causing a lack in low end and top speed. The low end may not be noticable untile you really work it with a load or taking off on a hill... Does the belt seem loose?

Does it sound like it revving all the way?

[bigmandengo]

i had a similar problem with my max 2.

http://www.6x6world.com/forums/transmissions/5527-clutch-problems.html

[pgoose]

I just got done reading your post. It sounds like my problem. I don't have a tach to tell if the motor is reving all the way, but it sounds like it is. I checked the belt, it's new and seems to have the correct deflection. Think I should go with the high speed kit and red spring? Thanks for the help everyone.

[pgoose]

I just got a tiny tach in the mail. (I figured I'd start there) My motor is only revving to about 3750rpm. How do I adjust to get the top rpm? (governor?) Should it be running in the 4000 - 4200 range? Thanks for the help

[Eldon]

A Briggs 18 hp-3750 is not bad,I'll check and see what their recommendations are.According to the manual it should never exceed 4000 and my Kohler runs at 3950 according to spec.

[Eldon]

R.I. manual does specify 3900-4000 rpm and doesn't specify which of the engines.A governor adjustment is required to increase rpm.

[bigmandengo]

i think your clutch should be fully engaged at like 35-3600 rpm. So if your running 3750 you should be fully engaged. I think your speed problems is amongst your clutches and belt, increasing the rpm shouldnt get you going much faster. thats where i would look first

[pgoose]

I ordered the "high speed clutch kit" from R.I. today. I'll keep you posted as to what happens.

[rrknapp]

What does the high speed clutch mod do?

[bigmandengo]

its just suppose to make the drive clutch close all the way. supposedly they dont quite close all the way from the factory.

[fulleraviation]

My 2008 Max IV with 18 HP Vanguard would only run 18mph. So your numbers are probably right for the Max II with smaller tires.

I went with a high speed clutch from Richards relics for a few hundred bucks. I also went with a thin headgasket to boost compression and heavy duty valve spring retainers with double springs. This is the weak part of the engine and allows you to run under 5,000 rpm's. I usually stay under 4,500 rpm's and see 26 to 28 mph. I can push it to 32 mph, but that is at like 5,100 rpm.

The more I run it the more I understand operating between 3,500 and say 4,200 rpm.

The extra speed is great, and my low end is still there. I am thinking about having a different cam profile cut to give extra torque at 3500 to 4000 which is the real operating range for the machine and clutch.

Later,
Rut