Getting frustrated with 18hp Vanguard

[flippy]

I have never had problems with any gas powered pressure washer engine,it has always been the pressure pump that goes.It seems to be a difference if the engine is verticle shaft or horizontal,I even modified my 1967 sears garden tractor to work with the horizontal shaft 13hp predator engine.Unfortunately I dont think the 20 percent off coupons work on the engines and welders anymore.I have had a couple 1970's gilson hydrostatic garden tractors that had the flat twin 16 hp briggs engines.One smoked like crazy,the other one just used a lot of gas.That particular tractor engine was specific to that tractor,I found it cheaper to buy another tractor with a good engine .Craigslist usually has many riding lawnmowers with good engines but the rear ends or tranny or tires or deck are useless however the engine is ok.

[rapidroy]

Do a compression test to make sure the cylinders have equal pressure, if they vary, check the push rods.

[wjs0311]

Last 25% said exludes ....Predator..., have you replaced the main jet with a stock or smaller jet? If you have a stock 16 carb setting around give it a try, what I've heard is drilling jets with a number bit size one at a time until you are good as you may have leaped where you only needed a hop.
Nubs swears by the Mikuni change over, easily adjusted and optional venture sizes.

I'm going to pull the carb & intake off of one of my back up pressure washers today and put it on the hustler. It is a 16hp. Hopefully that fixes it then I'll just have to get a new carb.

[thejunkman]

Also when you removed the governor did you remove the side cover and disable the internal linkage ? If so did you put the cam one tooth off ?

[wjs0311]

Sorry, been crazy busy. Took the carb and intake off of one of my power washers that had a 16hp van, slapped it in place and it ran better but still not right. Also busted a chain while running it. Haven't had time to replace the link or even ride it since this is our busy time.