Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): briggs running rich, hp briggs, mechanics

Question
I have a 18 hp briggs md 422777 1234 01 89061612. It starts great with no choke hot or cold that seems be be running rich. when I got it the smell was real strong and seemed to lack some power. I turned the screw on the front of carb in untill engine died and then out untill it ran smoother. but still smells real rich. any help? thanks

Answer
Have you recently overhauled the carburetor?  Rich running is rare these days...almost always run lean.



Is the inlet needle, inlet needle sealing?  Is the float level too low?  Does the oil smell like gas?


You should have a fixed jet carb.  The jet is made of brass.  I have heard of mechanics filling the jet with hot solder and then re-drilling to lean out the fuel.  Be sure to measure the main jet orfice/hole before trying to lean the fixed jet.  This will allow you gauge how big the main jet orfice should be.

Let me know if you have overhauled the carb.
Eric