I have a 420C with the 62 manual blade. The 440 is essentially the same (the tin, etc is different). The gas engine is good, but the diesel can be trouble. These use a Detroit 2-53 2-cyl, 2-cycle engine. It puts out higher HP than the gas, but an old one can have problems. There is a supercharger on the right side (that large bump that has GM cast into it). It blows air through ports in the center of the cylinder sleeve. The SC has pressure fed bearings, and if the seals leak lube oil into the airflow, you'll get detonation. You also have to watch for crankshaft bearing troubles. Once, someone tried to sell me a 435 with serious rod bearing trouble. he thought that knock was the injector pump, and ignored the fact that the oil pressure was 0 at idle, but 60 PSI wound up. The 2-53 has no injector pump! It injects by third main camshaft rockers striking the tappet on the end of the injector. Needless to say, I didn't go home with it..... . Now, all that aside, if it runs smoothly, and the oil pressure looks good, it'll be a fine engine. Be prepared for the noise, though. the 2-53 sounds like a diesel powered vacuum cleaner!
|