John Deere liquifire 440

[donetheconversion]

Hey guys
currently i am running a 340cc engine in my cart, but im looking to put a liquid cooled motor in. So i have a 1980 john deere liquifire 440cc liquid cooled engine with the fireburst carbs. Also has a comet 102c clutch that drops around 5k. It seems to have plenty of pick up in the sled, what do you guys think should i do the swap or do i hold out for a 500+ cc motor.
thanks

[spriddle]

Wow, must be nice to have those choices. I'd say either one.

[hookm]

The first engine I put in was a JD 340 Liquifire ,it hauled butt,I blew it up.I still have a radiator & electric fan for it.hookm

[donetheconversion]

I'm leaning towards the john Deere motor right know just because I allready have it. And when the fireburst takes over those things just take off..any ways next question is this before I parked it it would always fowl out the plugs pretty quick.. is this a sign that somethings not right like wrong plugs or bad ignition? Also its oil injected...any ideas why this is happening?
Thanks guys

[DOOmsman]

http://www.vintagesnow.com/John_Deer...e%20Manual.pdf

That is a regular round slide Mikuni, very easy to tune. If rich you may have a sticking, gas logged float or a piece of junk in the needle seat.
The sled was jetted for cold air so you may have to reduce the size of all the jets(piloy, main and drop the needle.

[donetheconversion]

thanks doom ive been looking for some sort of manual to it.
ill keep you guys posted this weekend ill go back to the barn where the sled is and ill give it a check over to see if its still running.
thanks

[sho305]

I have a 440 I could put in a cart too, not sure I want to (if I found a cart). The sled would go over 80mph so it should have enough power.

[Pitcart]

That 440 is a good peppy engine that is actualy a Kawasaki. I know the 1980 Kaw invader 440 I have out in the shed is rated at 72hp. I have parts for your JD if needed though they are invader parts.

You can convert that engine to ES using the starter and mag off of the fan versions of it though on most liquids you will have to open up the hole for the starter and drill and tap the mounting holes in the case. Much easier than is sounds.

Make sure that the gear case for the oil injection and water pump has lube in it! There is a sight glass on the front of the case on the clutch side.

[GreenOfTheRoad]

The kaw was a good 440. Cat used them in their 440z.
.

[ccproject36]

hey @greenofftheroad, im pretty sure cat switched to suzuki's for the 440 z. be wrong. and they made like 10 more hp