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.
• Disconnect battery at negative terminal (only engines with electric start).
• 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
Maintenance and Service
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 50 Hours or Annually
• Service air filter
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• Service pre-cleaner (if equipped)
• Change engine oil (Not required on Just Check & Add™ models)
• Replace oil filter (if equipped) (Not required on Just Check & Add™ models)
• Service exhaust system
Every 200 Hours or Annually
• Replace air filter
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• Replace pre-cleaner (if equipped)
Annually
• Replace spark plug
• Replace air filter
• Replace pre-cleaner (if equipped)
• Replace fuel filter (if equipped)
• Service fuel system
• Service cooling system
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• Check valve clearance
2
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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
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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 not sure 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: 11
Check the gap (A, Figure 11) 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
See Figure: 12, 13, 14, 15, 16
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
Running engines produce heat. Engine parts, especially muffler, become
extremely hot.
Severe thermal burns can occur on contact.
• If you drain the oil from the top oil fill tube, the fuel tank must be empty or fuel can
leak out and result in a fire or explosion.
• Allow muffler, engine cylinder and fins to cool before touching.
Used oil is a hazardous waste product and must be disposed of properly. Do not discard
with household waste. Check with your local authorities, service center, or dealer for
safe disposal/recycling facilities.
For Just Check & Add™ models, an oil change is not required. If you desire to change
oil, then follow the procedure below.
Remove Oil
You can drain the oil from the bottom drain hole or from the top oil fill tube.
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