Not for
Reproduction
Maintenance
NOTICE
If the engine is tipped during maintenance, the fuel tank, if mounted on
engine, must be empty and the spark plug side must be up. If the fuel tank is not empty
and if the engine is tipped in any other direction, it may be difficult to start due to oil or
gasoline contaminating the air filter and/or the spark plug.
WARNING
When performing maintenance that requires the unit to be tipped, the fuel tank, if mounted
on the engine, must be empty or fuel can leak out and result in a fire or explosion.
We recommend that you see any Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer for all maintenance
and service of the engine and engine parts.
NOTICE
All the components used to build this engine must remain in place for proper
operation.
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement, traumatic amputation, or
laceration.
Fire hazard
Before performing adjustments or repairs:
•
Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug.
•
Remove battery pack from engine battery tray. The battery pack may represent
equipment key in some instances.
•
Use only correct tools.
•
Do not tamper with governor spring, links or other parts to increase engine speed.
•
Replacement parts must be of the same design and installed in the same position
as the original parts. Other parts may not perform as well, may damage the unit, and
may result in injury.
•
Do not strike the flywheel with a hammer or hard object because the flywheel may
later shatter during operation.
When testing for spark:
•
Use approved spark plug tester.
•
Do not check for spark with spark plug removed.
Emissions Control Service
Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emissions control devices and systems
may be performed by any off-road engine repair establishment or individual. However,
to obtain "no charge" emissions control service, the work must be performed by a factory
authorized dealer. See the Emissions Control Statements.
Maintenance Schedule
First 5 Hours
•
Change oil (Not required on Just Check & Add™ models)
Every 8 Hours or Daily
•
Check engine oil level
•
Clean area around muffler and controls
•
Clean air intake grille
Every 25 Hours or Annually
•
Clean air filter
1
•
Clean pre-cleaner (if equipped)
Every 50 Hours or Annually
•
Change engine oil (Not required on Just Check & Add™ models)
•
Service exhaust system
Annually
•
Replace spark plug
•
Replace air filter
•
Replace pre-cleaner (if equipped)
•
Service cooling system
1
•
Check valve clearance
2
1
In dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present, clean more often.
2
Not required unless engine performance problems are noted.
Carburetor and Engine Speed
Never make adjustments to the carburetor or engine speed. The carburetor was set at the
factory to operate efficiently under most conditions. Do not tamper with the governor spring,
linkages, or other parts to change the engine speed. If any adjustments are required contact
a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Service Dealer for service.
NOTICE
The equipment manufacturer specifies the maximum speed for the engine
as installed on the equipment. Do not exceed this speed. If you are unsure what the
equipment maximum speed is, or what the engine speed is set to from the factory,
contact a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Service Dealer for assistance. For safe and
proper operation of the equipment, the engine speed should be adjusted only by a
qualified service technician.
Service Spark Plug
See Figure: 12
Check the gap (A, Figure 12) with a wire gauge (B). If necessary, reset the gap. Install and
tighten the spark plug to the recommended torque. For gap setting or torque, see the
Specifications section.
Note: In some areas, local law requires using a resistor spark plug to suppress ignition
signals. If this engine was originally equipped with a resistor spark plug, use the same type
for replacement.
Service Exhaust System
WARNING
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, especially muffler, become extremely
hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
Combustible debris, such as leaves, grass, brush, etc. can catch fire.
•
Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool before touching.
•
Remove accumulated debris from muffler area and cylinder area.
•
It is a violation of California Public Resource Code, Section 4442, to use or operate
the engine on any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the
exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in Section 4442,
maintained in effective working order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may have
similar laws. Contact the original equipment manufacturer, retailer, or dealer to obtain
a spark arrester designed for the exhaust system installed on this engine.
Remove accumulated debris from muffler and cylinder area. Inspect the muffler for cracks,
corrosion, or other damage. Remove the deflector or the spark arrester, if equipped, and
inspect for damage or carbon blockage. If damage is found, install replacement parts before
operating.
WARNING
Replacement parts must be of the same design and installed in the same position as
the original parts. Other parts may not perform as well, may damage the unit, and may
result in injury.
Change Engine Oil
9
