Hi Grumpy and Boeing,

ABSOLUTELY !, I couldn't agree with you more Grumpy, regarding the length as that is what I intend doing on my 20 inch machine. I wasn't going to suggest it publicly but decided not to say anything until I had done it myself.
Basically the theme is very good, but wherever the gusset finishes is always going to be a higher flexing point, thus that's where the load will inevitably be transferred to. In actual fact the load would basically be put upon the weld joints at the side plates.
The only way to avoid a vibrating Briggs and Rattler causing any issues is to build the chassis like a "Supercut" or replace the power plant with a smoother running Honda or Chonda.

Cheers,
BB

I live a 24 Hour lifestyle, but every now and again I seem to fall asleep, well at least that's what my wife tells me.