VC460 or 23 HP Vanguard

jrdnduvall

I have read forums on here for days regarding the two engines. Still I am not sure what I want. The cart I'm building is a 1997 EZGO TXT with a 4 inch factory lift 22-23 inch tires. From what I have read the VC460 is faster, but has less torque. The 23 HP Briggs has more torque and less RPM. I have a few questions regarding the two. Which engine will be good as far as longevity? VC has 90 day warranty and Briggs has 3 years. What about top speed with my set up with both motors? With the Vanguard I lose pedal start if I use the kit from VC. I have read that you can only start it in gear with the kit and have to shut off to shift? I worry about accidentally shifting while running and messing something up. Or is there another way to allow it to shift in gear?

Any opinions welcome.

Thanks in advance, Jordan.

BGW

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TJL

Its a apples and oranges discussion that had been beat up on here. The vegas motor is good but it also comes setup for performance. Top speed is set from higher rpm. The modded clone and modded briggs both achieve a high rpm(5-6k rpm). Both can handle more, just depends on how much $$ you want to throw at it. If you are good mechanicly, you can get a used briggs for cheaper than the clone motor and tune it ip/modify it. If you are talking new motors, the vegas wins for being much cheaper. For hp and torque, go v twin. The twin will also almost certainly idle lower and smoother than a single cyl which makes it easy to shift f-n-r while idling. I have a clone cart and a v twin cart. The clone is a excellent cost effective replacment for a stock motor, much better performance. But then i did the v twin cart and holy crap, what a difference! Loads of torque and power. Many on here reccomend the clone because they have it and they are happy with it, and that is great. Some of us have done both motors and i think all would say go v-twin if possible.

If you do go clone, definately go with vegas carts. Cant beat it for the $ and i have always had good service from them.

It really depends on your skill level. Lots of people get in over their heads with these swaps. If you are good mechanicly you can do more yourself and save money. If you arent solid mechanicly, one of the "kits" would be best.

nobuckbuild

it depends on if you want to do and what you want to spend and where you want to be , where do you ride , do you have hills to climb , do you need pedal start , i personally like vanguards but i climb mountains , if i wanted speed flat out and did not want to do any fab sure vegas carts works and eliminates some hurdles simply doubles your horsepower , do they have torque yes as much as a vangaurd no , and they are tweaked out just about as far as the design will support where as a vanguard has options

jrdnduvall

I tend to think the 23 HP Vanguard is the way to go. It will have the Comet 780 clutch on it and I'm planning to use the Vegas Carts install kit. Could fab my own, but the cradle they sell looks very nice. My main concern was shifting while idling. I guess with that clutch and the proper belt it shouldn't be too bad though? I read that you can also change the clutch springs in the driven clutch?

raydhd

I think all the others have went into the pro and cons of the 2 engines.Just be aware the S/G and pedal start cannot be used there is just no room.You have to use a key start like a car with a position on the switch to momentarily engage the starter.I am sure the vanny boys will explain this further but I did not see your question answered in the other threads.If people other than yourself are driving the cart this part of the vanguard swap needs to be considered.

jrdnduvall

Okay so for sure with the Vanguard a starter switch with momentary contacts will be needed. If someone else can tell me for sure that the cart can be shifted F-N-R while idling using the Comet 780 clutch and 23 HP Vanguard, I will go ahead and pull the trigger on the purchase? I have read many forums looking for a clear answer. Just want to make absolutely sure before purchasing. I think the Vanguard will be what I need for hills and speed. Plus, I like the 3 year warranty.

Thanks, Jordan.

Bronco Barney

The V Twin will run smoother because of firing pulses..... Go with what ya think ya need.

Dave in VA

You won't be disappointed in the 23 Vanguard. If you're going to remove the governor and add a cam and/or rev kit, the warranty will probably be voided, but that's a moot point if you want the performance. The 780 shouldn't be a problem. No one that I know has to shut the engine down to shift.

TJL

The vanguard with the comet 780 should have no prob idling low. My kohler v twin with comet 780 shifts effortlessly at idle. Get used to the vanguard then look into some valve springs, pushrods, cam, maybe piston rods. Pretty easy to turn it into a real monster but still drive nice and easy.

slonomo

My vtwin idles at 1000 rpm and shifts back and forth without any noise or issues. The 780 engages at 1800 rpm so there's some room there. I can get mine to idle as low as 800 rpm but it sometimes will stall and the lights go dim at night. I don't have any issues at 1000 rpm.

Your belt setup will be key with the performance. Make sure you get the proper width belt, preferably a H.D. belt, or even a Kevlar type. These have better grip and last longer. I've used cheap belts and they slip and wear fast. Belt alignment has to be spot on, if it's off, you'll get some wear and funny shifting.

Stay with a good condition stock secondary. See how it does. If you need more low gear, get a spring.