HDS-3185 OVER HEATING

[mhessey]

I got my first cub and was so happy with the cut and performance. 30 minutes into my mowing the motor starting smoking (not out the exhaust) and smelled very hot. Went to lift the hood and the lens cover fell off and was all melted from the heat. Noticed oil coming from the rear of the motor. Is the heat issue from a lean carb, or maybe a rear seal leaking ?

 

[jchamberlin]

Mark: Welcome to the Forum. From what I can tell, your engine is an 18 HP B&S Vanguard. Many people report favorable experiences with them. Most of the stories I've heard about plastic melting on later MTD Cubs involves issues with the exhaust, which, if true, could indicate an issue with the carburetor. The oil coming out the rear main could be excessive wear and/or a clogged breather. Those are just some of the thoughts I had reading your description. I hope you're able to keep the engine.

 

[jdiederichs]

Mark,

You may have a broken baffle in the muffler, which would increase backpressure and cause that problem. That is not uncommon. The second cause may be an air leak into the muffler, such as a seam or pipe leaking air into the muffler. which creates a blast furnace effect and makes the muffler red.
Once you find the cause be sure to change that oil, as it has been overheated.
Another thing to look for may be a head gasket leak. You may see that is the source of the oil.

 

[mhessey]

Thanks gentlemen for the advice. Sorry for getting back so late with my solution on the problem. I found that the right grill support had come loose and the muffler had moved away from the exhaust port and was leaking badly. I got that fixed and the machine is running great, still have a few minor issues to work out and I am going to be another HAPPY CADET OWNER.