2001 Vanguard top end parts

[SGF]

I have a 2001 EzGo Workhorse ST 450. It has the 16 hp. Briggs Vanguard V-twin, everything is stock.

A week or so ago it started making a cloud of blue smoke. It ran erratic, low power, etc. Plugs were badly fouled with oil. I took it to a shop this morning for a top end rebuild. The guy says he can't find the rebuild kit in his books. Considering the number of these engines that are out there I'm thinking he is overlooking sources. Can anyone point me in the right direction for a top end kit?

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[SGF]

Based on the lack of responses to my OP from the knowledgeable members here. and my own parts searches, I think I have to consider alternatives to my original plan. I'm still going to research the rebuild kit option but what about a new engine?

FWIW the cart may be a 2002 vice a 2001 as I originally said. The engines model number is 303440. Does anyone know if a new 16 HP B&S Vanguard would be a straight up bolt in swap, or would mods be necessary. I know of other options like the clones and Predator engines etc. but I am looking for a straight up bolt in change with no mods, including lift kits.

[BLACK DEATH]

Should be, but I’d say post in the big block section about this as this section, in my opinion, is more about the si glue smaller engines.... or join big block carts forum also.
Also maybe look at the difference I price for a bigger engine from 18 - 23 hp especially if there isnt a significant difference in price

[ecaldwell78]

The only place I've been able to find top rebuild kits are on the Bay for about $140.00. I would encourage anyone to check with site sponsors first though. It may not be listed on their websites but doesn't mean they cannot get the parts you need.

[SGF]

After a good bit of research on all the options I have decided to replace the engine with a new 16 hp Vanguard. I have no great connection to Vanguards but if what the Briggs distributor is telling me the new model will be a direct bolt in replacement, albeit just a bit larger. I don't think that will be an issue because the fit isn't real tight.

I considered getting mine rebuilt but with shipping etc. the new one costs $330 more than a rebuild. Considering it is a sixteen year old air cooled engine with all the wear and tear that goes with that the cost difference seemed worthwhile. This is my wife's cart used daily fore hauling feed, etc. so needs to get back in service. Although I really like the rebuild option, since I know everything would fit, I hope this works out.

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[Dave in VA]

Someone here may want to buy your old Vanguard...

[SGF]

The engine swap is done. The Vanguard 350000 was a direct bolt in replacement for the original 2002 16 hp. Vanguard engine. This model has electronic ignition but not fuel injection. I would have liked fuel injection but I was most concerned about a direct fit and this is the model that delivered that. The manual says I can run up to 10% ethanol gasoline but I think I'll continue to pay the extra for real gas as I do for all my other small engines.

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