Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B & S engine failure, overhead valve engines, briggs stratton engine

Question
Hi - I have a 20 year old push leaf blower with a 5hp Briggs & Stratton engine. Was using it yesterday and it briefly sounded a little different, then I heard something break, and the engine stopped. Now won't start. It's not a carb or gas issue - it's something major inside engine - after I pull the rope the wheel keeps spinning longer than normal and there is no compression sound. A new leaf blower is about $400 - any idea what it might cost to fix this? Thanks.

Answer
Hello Tom:

>>From your Description it Sounds like the Connecting Rod may have Broken or there is a Problem with the Valves.
>>Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug or the Muffler. Many horizontal shaft, overhead valve engines have these numbers stamped into the OHV rocker cover. However, on certain overhead valve powered generators, the equipment manufacturer installs a decorative chrome rocker cover OVER the Briggs cover. If your engine has a decorative cover, it may be necessary to remove it in order to locate the Model, Type, and Code. If this is a Briggs and Stratton  Engine, then you can Also Use this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/BS_modeltypecode.pdf for Assistance in Locating the Model, Type and Code Numbers of a Briggs and Stratton Engine.
>>If you are Performing the Possible Repairs yourself, then the Cost should be Less than $200.00us in a Worse Case Senerio (ie: the Crankshaft and Connecting Rod have to be Replaced).
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 3 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. All Follow up Questions are Accepted at Any Time. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John