Vanguard 20hp too much fuel, black smoke, won't run at full throttle, no power

[tlamott12]

I have motor model number 358777-0280-E1. Simplicity 50 zero turn. 700hrs well maintained, looks brand new. Bought this used from a guy. Ran great at his house. Trailered it home, cut my grass once then started blowing black smoke. No power under load, plugs were black, oil was black, took the air filter off and fuel was running out. New spark plugs, oil change, air filter is new, took the carb off blew brake clean through it, needle looked ok. Spark is smooth. Fuel filter is new and clean. I can't find any carb kit for it. Parts are hard to come by. I was going to order a needle and float. Not sure what else to do. Float is plastic so no adjustment can be made. Guy feels horrible and wants to help he never had any problems. Any suggestions?

 

[sgkent]

First thing is check to see if the choke is opening especially if it is a cable operated choke. Google says the engine you list has a manual knob to open and close the choke. I don't know but if the choke was not moved to run by the operator, what you describe would happen.

Jacks Small Engine Parts https://www.jackssmallengines.com/j...58799/358777-0280-g1/carburetor-fuel-solenoid

this is from Google AI. If the carb is two barrel like the photos, it might be more complex for the average person to rebuild it:

The replacement OEM Carburetor Assembly for your Briggs & Stratton Vanguard (Model 358777-0280-E1) is part number 845199. [1, 2]
While Briggs & Stratton parts diagrams for this 35 cu. in. V-Twin engine list a "Carburetor Overhaul Kit" category, individual internal component parts are heavily restricted or discontinued. The preferred method to fix fuel delivery issues on this specific industrial model is a full swap out. [1, 2]
Depending on your budget and preference for original parts, you have two distinct paths forward:

• Briggs & Stratton 845199 Carburetor: This is the official genuine OEM replacement carburetor. Built specifically to factory standards for 35 cu. in. twin-cylinder OHV Vanguard engines, choosing this option guarantees it will meet original emission standards and match factory throttle/governor linkage configurations exactly. You can check current availability or grab it directly from the official Briggs & Stratton Shop. [1, 2]
• Aftermarket 358777-0280-E1 Carburetor Kits: If the OEM unit is outside your target budget, direct fit aftermarket assemblies are widely manufactured for this exact model. Suppliers like Mower Parts Land offer complete replacement carburetors bundled with new mounting gaskets at a lower price point. Keep in mind that when using aftermarket options, you may occasionally need to slightly trim or adjust the choke butterfly link during installation to achieve a perfect