Cub 1440 smoking under load - new issue.

Mike9 · Jul 1, 2016

Hi - I just serviced my 1440 with Vanguard 14hp. V-twin last week - fresh oil, all filters and plugs. I was cutting the back field today and with the PTO engaged and pushing it up hill it started blowing a cloud of white smoke. I shut it down and checked for leaks then started it up and it ran fine till the PTO was engaged and it was work loaded. I can run it up to WOT and nothing, engage the PTO on level ground and nothing, but in gear smoke. I pulled the plugs and they are not oily. I'm thinking head gasket, but it's air cooled, or could oil be getting in the cylinder because of a blown gasket? I'd like to diagnose it without a full tear down. Thanks for any opinions and help.

Mike9 · Jul 1, 2016

It's a head gasket - just ordered the set so will tear down and rebuild next week. Have a great 4th of July.

jimmysisson · Jul 4, 2016

How did you determine head gasket? How many hours on engine? Best luck w rebuild.
Jim

Mike9 · Jul 4, 2016

Watched several videos on youtube. They all seem to go in the same spot where the gasket is narrowest between the cylinder and the push rod port.

jimmysisson · Jul 4, 2016

I have one w 620 hours, curious about your hours. Thanks

Mike9 · Jul 4, 2016

Mine has 425 showing, but it used to be my BIL's and he bought it used so what kind of maintenance, or neglect it's had I don't know. My niece gave it to me after he died. It's a nice machine and with new gaskets and regular maintenance should last for years.