Hard to Start 16.5 hp Briggs V-TWIN
- Thread starter Dave5264
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oldcub
New member
I have a 16 hp Vanguard in my Max amphib. I had the same problem until I changed out the fuel pump. This engine starts no matter how long it sits or how cold it is. It does seem at times to be running one one cylinder, then two. Usually when run in low speed for a time. This engine also requires a high idle speed according to the instruction book.
tjintheshop
New member
My dad had this same issue. Believe it or not, if it is an OHC, setting the valve clearance will fix this. I guess it is common for the lock nuts on the rockers to loosen up on these BS engines. Starts right up now after we did that.
RandyT
Elite Member
unless i am missing something wouldnt a 12 year old commercial 16.5 horse be a opposed L head twin and not a intek or vanguard ohv v-twin. I have had time where i go 90 psi on a cylinder on the opposed but if i released the compression while still cranking i would only get 30 or less and would have low compression failure.
jhwentworth
Silver Member
Didn't the 16.5 Vanguard come out in the mid-1990s? That would be about 12+ years.
Didn't somebody suggest squirting a little gas in the carb throat to see if that helped the starting? If it does then pull the top off the carb to see if there's fuel in the bowl.
Thought just hit me: It's been over a week since the last post by the OP. It may well be that his problem is fixed and he forgot to do an update.
It would help if we knew exactly what engine the OP has.
They should go here: Operator Manuals, Illustrated Parts Lists & Wiring Diagrams - Briggs & Stratton for help in locating the model number.
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