Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton Engine, briggs stratton engine, briggs stratton

Question
I have a Briggs & Stratton 16.5 HP OHV 1/C Model #313707. Before mowing this year I did routine maintenance, etc., made about 1 trip around the yard and the mower shut off very abruptly.  Almost felt like I had hit something like a tree stump, that's how quickly it shut off.  Couldn't find anything wrong but the engine will not turn over at all.  Could it possibly be a thrown rod?  Any suggestions on where to start would be very helpful.  Thanks

Rick

Answer
Hello Rick:

>>From your Description it Does Sound like a Broken Conecting Rod, However, there are Other Possible causes for this also.
>>Remove the Spark Plug.
>>Can you Turn the Engine Reverse Rotation any at All?
>>Remove the Belt/s from the Crankshaft.
>>Can you Turn the Engine?
>>If the Engine can Not be Turned by Hand with the Plug Out and Trying to Turn the Engine Counter CLockwise, then
>>There is an Internal Problem, Most Likely the Connecting Rod has Broken.
>>You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.outdoordistributors.com/ and Select the B. Then Select Briggs and Stratton. Then Select Don't have Part Numbers. Then Select the File #31 . Then Select the Folder #313700. **Note: you can Download and Save the Breakdown for your Engine by Selecting the 2nd Icon from the Left at the Top of the PDF page.**
>>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