Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): john deere 445 runs rough, overhead valve engines, john deere 445

Question
my dad has jd445 and cam went out a few years ago.had dealer fix and also new fuel pump and water pump and not sure what else.It started running rough again and thought the cam was out again.the battery needs replaced so we used a booster pack on it so I could see how it ran.It started and ran fine for 5-10 minutes then would hardly run.not sure how old it is but manual he has for it is copyright 1992. serial #011115.when it started a green light was on on  circuit board and red light was off or dim.when it was running rough both the green and red light were on.what does the light mean? I thought I would check if you had any ideas.

Answer
Hello Dave:

>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Engine and Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers 445 and Click Find. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. *You can Drag the View Windows for Better Viewing.*
>>From your Description it Sounds like the Valve Clearances May Require Setting and/or the Stator/Alternator (or Voltage Regulator if Applicable) may Require Replacing.
>>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 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 5 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. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John