I have a k181t on a log spliter and it dies under a load when it is running after 10-15 minutes.It runs great frist pull when cold and splits great intill 10-15 minutes then dies only under load. After that it will not start intill it cools down a bit and than it will die as soon as you put a load on it.no black smoke no white smoke. New plug,plug wire,coil,condenser,carb,air cleaner,gas tank,gas line, gas filter,gas! Plug is wet when it dies but it does not have strong gas smell like if it was floaded. Its more like oil but it never smokes.its also wet if I use the kill switch.

Hi,
That engine was notorious for blowing head gaskets.
Peace,
Clarke

I have pulled the head off.gasket looked fine.I'll replace it. At this point I'll try anything! Can it run good intill hot with a blown or leaking head gasket?

Hi,
Yes it can, though it will usually have tell tale signs. The K91 is the worst, but the 181 is bad too. When the engine reaches "temperature" it can leak because the bolts lengthen that haold the head on.
Peace,
Clarke

I replaced the head gasket(the shop I went to was surprised they had one in stock and so was I )and torked it to 25 instead of 20. I also replaced the points and condenser with a electronic ignition.(I had it already)It runs great under a load so far but if I had to bet, I think it was the head gasket.I can't split any wood yet because there is a foot of snow over it!I can't thank you enough. Marry Christmas